Reasons for putting barriers for foreign trade and foreign investment by the government in India:

There are several reasons why the government of India has implemented barriers for foreign trade and foreign investment. These barriers are aimed at protecting domestic industries, promoting self-sufficiency, and maintaining economic stability. The following are the key reasons:

1. Protection of Domestic Industries:
- The government imposes trade barriers to safeguard domestic industries from foreign competition. This is done to prevent the displacement of local industries and workers.
- High import tariffs and quotas are implemented to make imported goods more expensive and less competitive in the domestic market.
- These barriers provide a level playing field for domestic industries to grow and compete without being overshadowed by foreign companies.

2. Promoting Self-Sufficiency:
- India, being a developing country, aims to reduce its dependence on foreign goods and services.
- By imposing barriers on foreign trade, the government encourages the production and consumption of goods and services that can be domestically sourced.
- This promotes self-sufficiency and reduces reliance on imports, which can help in achieving a more sustainable and resilient economy.

3. Protecting National Security and Sovereignty:
- Certain industries, such as defense and telecommunications, are considered crucial for national security and sovereignty.
- The government restricts foreign investment in these sectors to prevent any potential threat or control by foreign entities.
- By maintaining control over these strategic industries, the government ensures the protection of national interests.

4. Addressing Balance of Payments Issues:
- Barriers on foreign trade and investment can be used to address balance of payments issues, such as a current account deficit.
- Restricting imports can reduce the outflow of foreign exchange and help stabilize the country's balance of payments position.
- Similarly, limitations on foreign investment can control the outflow of capital and maintain a stable financial situation.

5. Infant Industry Protection:
- The government may impose trade barriers to protect nascent or infant industries that are still in the early stages of development.
- By shielding these industries from foreign competition, the government provides them with the opportunity to grow and become competitive in the long run.
- Once these industries have achieved a certain level of maturity, the barriers can be gradually reduced or eliminated.

Overall, the government of India implements barriers for foreign trade and foreign investment to protect domestic industries, promote self-sufficiency, safeguard national security, address balance of payments concerns, and nurture the growth of infant industries. These measures are implemented to strike a balance between the benefits of international trade and the protection of national interests.