India vs USA: American mum says India is more 'resourceful and less wasteful' than the US

Imagine paying just Rs 30 to fix a broken kettle and watching it work like new again—sounds unreal in some countries, but that’s everyday life in India. Kristen Fischer, an American mum of four now living in India, recently shared her amazement on Instagram. From appliances to shoes, phones to clothing, almost anything can be repaired easily and cheaply in India, she shared. Unlike in the US, where replacement often costs more than repair, India’s repair culture makes life less wasteful, more resourceful, and surprisingly pocket-friendly, according to her. It’s small hacks like these that make living here a unique experience for her and her family.

Kristen’s personal experience highlights the stark contrast between everyday problem-solving in India versus the US. When her electric kettle broke, she simply took it to a local repairman, who fixed it for just Rs 30. In America, she notes, people often replace items instead of repairing them, making small fixes expensive and inconvenient. In India, however, you can find countless repair shops across cities and towns, capable of restoring almost anything—from gadgets and kitchen appliances to clothes and shoes—without burning a hole in your wallet. This hands-on, cost-effective approach not only saves money but also reduces waste, showing how resourcefulness is embedded in daily life here.


What did the internet say?
Some users reacted with a mix of humour and admiration for India’s repair culture. One pointed out how it explains why India can carry out significant initiatives, like space programs, at a fraction of the cost of a Hollywood movie. Another noted that in cities like Gurgaon, repair costs are higher, around 300–400 rupees, highlighting regional differences. Many praised the ingenuity and practicality of Indians, calling it “jugaad,” where people find creative solutions for almost any problem.

One user shared a personal example: when their washing machine developed rust, instead of replacing it, the mother-in-law called a repairman who replaced the metal body with a fibre one, allowing the machine to continue working for another four years. Others described India as a land of sustainability, appreciating how people are environmentally conscious and don’t discard items unnecessarily. Some wondered aloud about life in the US, questioning if people there simply buy a new item every time something breaks. Overall, the comments celebrated India’s resourcefulness, thriftiness, and inventive approach to everyday problems.