New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the India–United States interim trade agreement as “good news for India and America,” calling it a major milestone in bilateral relations. Thanking US President Donald Trump for his personal interest in strengthening ties with India, Modi said the deal reflects growing trust and a deep strategic partnership between the two countries. The agreement provides for India to reduce or remove import duties on US agricultural products, including grains and fruits, while the US will lower tariffs on Indian goods from 25 percent to 18 percent. India is also expected to import goods worth nearly ₹5,000 lakh crore over the next five years, mainly in the energy and aviation sectors.
However, the deal has sparked sharp political controversy, with critics alleging that the Modi government has conceded excessively to American trade interests. Questions have been raised over the process, as trade agreements are usually finalised after prolonged ministerial negotiations rather than direct leader-level talks. The agreement also makes no reference to Russian oil imports, adding to concerns. The timing of the deal—coming amid reports linking Modi’s name to the Epstein files—has fuelled allegations that US pressure played a role, turning the trade pact into a major flashpoint in national political debate.
