New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a strong rebuttal to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff hike on Indian exports, declaring that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers, dairy producers, or fishermen—no matter the cost.
Speaking at the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, Modi emphasized the government’s unwavering stand on agricultural welfare.
“Farmers’ welfare is our top priority. Even if we have to pay a heavy price, India is fully prepared. Personally, I am ready to pay any price to protect their interests,” said the Prime Minister, indirectly addressing the U.S. tariff escalation.
Paying tribute to M.S. Swaminathan, the pioneer of India’s Green Revolution, Modi called for a renewed focus on nutrition security, building on the country’s legacy of food security.
Trump’s decision to raise tariffs affects key Indian agricultural exports to the U.S., dealing a blow to sectors vital to India’s rural economy.
Adding to the tension, the U.S. also imposed a 25% additional tariff on Russian crude oil, prompting a strong diplomatic response from India. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the move as “unfair, unjustified, and irrational,” asserting that India would take all necessary steps to safeguard its national interests.
With the new order reportedly signed by Trump, India now faces U.S. tariffs as high as 50%—a move that could impact bilateral trade significantly.
