PM Modi Says India Prepared to Protect Farmers’ Interests
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured that India is ready to safeguard the interests of its farmers and economy following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of an additional 25% tariff on Indian agricultural exports. The Prime Minister made the statement while addressing a public rally in Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing that India is prepared to handle any global economic pressure.
Without directly naming the U.S. or President Trump, Modi referred to recent attempts by “some foreign powers” to disrupt India’s growth and hurt its producers. He said, “India is ready for it. No one can stop the development of our farmers and our economy.”
The remark came shortly after President Trump revealed new tariff measures targeting several countries, including India, as part of a broader push to reduce U.S. trade deficits. Though the specific list of affected goods has not been made public, officials in India believe that the measures could affect exports of key farm products such as rice, spices, and processed foods.
Centre Confident in Farm Sector Resilience
Modi’s statement was aimed at reassuring India’s agricultural community, which forms the backbone of the country’s rural economy. The Prime Minister highlighted that Indian farmers have overcome bigger challenges in the past and will continue to grow stronger.
The government is expected to consult with exporters and trade bodies to evaluate the likely impact of the tariffs. India’s Commerce Ministry may also explore trade remedial actions or negotiations through international forums like the WTO.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have criticised the Centre for what they call a lack of preparedness and failure to foresee diplomatic trade shocks. However, BJP leaders insist that the Modi government has already initiated steps to expand domestic markets and boost farm exports to new regions such as Africa and Southeast Asia.
Global Trade Tensions Rising Ahead of U.S. Elections
Trade experts suggest that the new tariffs could be part of a political strategy by President Trump to appear tough on foreign trade ahead of the U.S. presidential elections. India, one of the world’s top agricultural producers, is now among several countries watching Washington’s next steps closely.
India’s ability to withstand these challenges may depend on how quickly it can diversify its export markets and strengthen internal agricultural infrastructure.
