New Delhi : India would put its interests first, even if that means paying a heavy price, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday in remarks seen as a direct response to US President Donald Trump, who slapped a 50 per cent tariff on India for its continued purchases of Russian oil.
PM Modi made it clear that he would continue to stand by the country’s farmers and bear the brunt of America’s steepest tariffs. For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority, the PM said. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers.
The Prime Minister’s defiant tone came after Trump imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, pushing the total duty to a staggering 50 per cent, the highest the US has imposed on any country. While calling India a friend, Trump warned of a penalty for its Moscow liaisons just days ago.
It also called out Washington’s double standards in singling it out for Russian oil imports while continuing to buy Russian uranium hexafluoride, palladium and fertiliser. The tariff hike also reflects growing frustration in Washington over stalled bilateral trade deal negotiations, which broke down after New Delhi refused to cede ground on agricultural market access and digital trade rules.
Trump’s tariff offensive has plunged US-India ties to their lowest point in recent years. It has also raised concerns among exporters and industry leaders on both sides. Analysts warn the tariffs could hurt key Indian sectors including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and processed foods—all major contributors to India’s exports. The initial 25 percent duty came into effect today, August 7.
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