Ready to pay heavy price…: PM’s stern message amid Trump tariff barrage
India would put its interests first, even if that means paying a heavy price, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday in remarks seen as a direct response to US President Donald Trump, who slapped a 50 per cent tariff on India for its continued purchases of Russian oil.
Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, PM Modi made it all but clear that the government was prepared to bear the brunt of America’s steepest tariffs yet for standing by its farmers amid an impasse in trade talks after New Delhi refused to cede ground on agricultural protections.
“For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority,” the PM said. “India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it and I am ready for it. India is ready for it.”
His defiant tone came after Trump slapped an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, pushing the total duty to a staggering 50 per cent, the highest the US has imposed on any country.
The move is widely seen as a direct punishment for India’s refusal to toe the US line on buying Russian oil and military equipment, a sore point that has strained a strategic relationship that was on the up and up in recent years.
While calling India a “friend,” Trump warned of a “penalty” for its Moscow liaisons just days ago. On Wednesday, he delivered.
The tariff hike also reflects growing frustration in Washington over stalled bilateral trade deal negotiations, which broke down over disagreements on agricultural market access and digital trade rules.
Trump’s tariff offensive has plunged US-India ties to their lowest point in recent years. It has also raised concerns among exporters and industry leaders on both sides. Analysts warn the tariffs could hurt key Indian sectors including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and processed foods—all major contributors to India’s exports.
The initial 25 percent duty came into effect today, August 7, while the second round will hit in 21 days, unless the two sides reach a breakthrough.
