New Delhi: In a bold rebuttal to the latest US tariff hike, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India will never compromise on the rights and livelihoods of its farmers, fishermen, and livestock holders, even if it means paying a personal or political cost.
Addressing the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi just hours after US President Donald Trump slapped a steep 25% additional tariff on Indian exports, PM Modi affirmed, “The interests of our farmers are supreme. India will never kneel or strike a bargain that sacrifices their future.”
The Prime Minister’s statement comes amid rising tensions between Washington and New Delhi, after President Trump justified the tariff escalation as a “penalty” for India’s continued import of Russian crude oil, despite repeated American warnings.
India, a key exporter of agricultural goods like rice, spices, tea, and marine products to the US, now faces total tariffs of up to 50%, jeopardizing billions in trade revenue.
“I am fully aware of the consequences. I know the cost I’ll have to bear. But for the sake of the people who till our lands and fish our seas, I will never back down,” Modi added, drawing widespread applause from the audience.
In a swift and strongly worded response, the Ministry of External Affairs called the US decision “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” The ministry emphasized that India’s energy choices are governed by market dynamics and national security needs.
“We are ensuring energy access for 1.4 billion citizens. Targeting us while many nations continue similar imports is discriminatory and unacceptable,” the statement read.
This latest trade flare-up comes at a delicate time as India prepares for general elections in 2026, with Modi positioning himself once again as the voice of the agrarian population.
With both superpowers digging in their heels, diplomatic experts warn that the trade dispute could spiral unless moderated by strategic backchannel talks. Meanwhile, India's farm and fishing communities brace for global economic ripples with New Delhi clearly stating: it won’t be bullied into submission.