India Is Ready for It: PM Modi Responds to Trump’s Tariff Hike, Reaffirms Support for Farmers

Following the imposition of high tariffs on Indian exports by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to safeguarding its farmers on Thursday amid escalating tensions over U.S. trade policies.

In his remarks at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi emphasised that even if it means paying a price, the interests of India's farmers, fishers, and dairy producers will not be compromised.

"The interests of our farmers are our first concern. Modi proclaimed, "India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers." "I am prepared to pay the high price that we will have to pay for it. India is prepared.

Trump's recent decision to raise tariffs on Indian imports, especially agricultural products, by another 25%, increasing the total charge to 50%, comes after his comments. The move, which was made official on Wednesday by an executive order, is anticipated to have a major effect on India's exports to the United States.

US Requests vs. Indian Opposition

The news agency ANI reports that U.S. negotiators have been putting pressure on India to open its agricultural market, particularly for cotton, soybeans, and maize. The necessity to protect domestic livelihoods and prevent disturbance to the local farming sector has led Indian policymakers to oppose such measures.

Trump cites national security as his defence.

Trump signed the executive order, which justified the raise by citing foreign policy and national security considerations. India is accused of continuing to buy oil from Russia, which the order describes as a "unusual and extraordinary threat" to U.S. interests.

Two stages will see the implementation of the higher rates. All Indian goods entering the United States are subject to the initial 25% tariff, which went into effect on August 7, and the subsequent 25% charge, which will be applied after 21 days, unless they are already in transit or qualify for special exemptions.

Future modifications are also permitted by the order, contingent on Russia-related events or India's retaliatory actions.

Dedicated to MS Swaminathan

PM Modi honoured MS Swaminathan at the same ceremony by presenting a commemorative coin and stamp in his honour.

Acclaimed as the founder of India's Green Revolution, Swaminathan transformed Indian agriculture in the 1960s by bringing high-yield wheat cultivars and contemporary agricultural techniques, which helped the nation conquer food scarcity and improve rural areas.

On August 28, 2023, Swaminathan, who was born in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, on August 7, 1925, died in Chennai at the age of 98.