PM Modi’s Commitment to Farmers and Fishermen

In a decisive response to the recent tariff escalation by US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to its farmers and fishermen. Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi, Modi emphasized that India will not compromise on the interests of its agricultural community, despite the personal and national costs involved. “The interest of farmers is our top priority,” he declared, underscoring his readiness to face any challenges for the sake of India’s farmers, livestock holders, and fishermen.

Impact of US Tariffs on Indian Exports

The imposition of an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian exports by the US has raised the total tariffs to 50 percent. This move is seen as a penalty for India’s continued importation of Russian crude oil. The Ministry of External Affairs has criticized this action as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” highlighting that India’s energy imports are driven by market factors and aimed at ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens.

Historical Context and Diplomatic Tensions

The tariffs come amid strained relations between India and the US following Operation Sindoor, India’s response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. Despite Trump’s claims of mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, the Modi government has consistently denied any external influence on its military operations. The tariff hikes also coincide with stalled negotiations on an India-US trade deal, with Washington seeking greater access to India’s agricultural markets—a proposal India has resisted to protect its farmers.

Future Implications for India-US Relations

As tensions rise over trade policies and diplomatic disagreements, the future of India-US relations remains uncertain. Prime Minister Modi’s firm stance on protecting domestic agricultural interests highlights the challenges ahead in balancing international trade demands with national priorities.