Trump's Tariff Tribute: A Nod to India's Strategic Autonomy

Congress MP Manish Tewari interprets Donald Trump's recent 25% tariff announcement as a recognition of India's strategic exceptionalism. Despite the potential impact on Indo-US relations, Tewari emphasizes India's longstanding foreign policy approach. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticizes PM Modi's diplomacy, highlighting Trump's additional penalties on India's trade with Russia.

In an unexpected diplomatic twist, US President Donald Trump's announcement of a 25 percent tariff on India has been framed as a compliment to India's strategic autonomy by Congress MP Manish Tewari. He suggests that it acknowledges India's foreign policy rooted in Nehru's non-alignment stance.

Posting on social media platform X, Tewari stated, 'Donald Trump has perhaps given the biggest tribute to Indian strategic exceptionalism.' He elaborated on India's evolution from Nehru's non-alignment to the current Atmanirbhar Bharat policy, emphasizing strategic flexibility in global interactions.

Responding to Trump's tariff threats, Tewari downplayed its impact on India's strategic autonomy but warned of potential strains on Indo-US engagement. In contrast, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized Prime Minister Modi for his engagements with Trump, highlighting the minimal benefits in wake of the tariffs and additional penalties for India's oil imports from Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)