India Stands Firm: Modi Defies US Tariffs, Champions Farmers' Interests

Prime Minister Modi adamantly prioritizes Indian farmers as the US doubles tariffs on imports. Amid rising tensions, Trump's administration seeks greater access to India's agricultural market, but Modi resists, fearing the impact on domestic livelihoods. Potential economic impacts loom as the tariffs take effect.

In a resolute address concerning the newly imposed US tariffs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that safeguarding Indian farmers remains paramount. Modi's remarks underlined India's unwavering stance against conceding to US tariff pressures, which have been escalated to 50% on Indian goods.

The US, aiming for broader access to India's agricultural sector, particularly in crops like corn and soybeans, faces resistance from India. Concerns for local farmers' livelihoods have deterred India from opening its market, despite strategic pressures from the Trump administration.

The tension escalated as US President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order mandating an additional 25% tariff, raising national security concerns tied to India's Russian oil imports. Economists project these tariffs could affect India's GDP by up to 0.4%, impacting various sectors and sparking potential renegotiations to mitigate economic fallout. Specific exemptions exist under the order for critical materials and resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)