Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reaffirmed his government's unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of farmers, declaring that India will never compromise on their welfare — even if it comes at a personal cost.
His remarks came a day after former US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods, targeting India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil.
“For us, the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers are paramount. India will never compromise on this. I know I may have to pay a price personally, but I am prepared for that,” said PM Modi, while addressing the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi.
Last week, Trump imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian imports, accusing India of fuelling the ongoing war in Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil and weaponry. He further claimed India was re-selling Russian crude for profit on the open market.
On Wednesday, Trump announced an additional 25 per cent tariff, bringing the total duties on Indian products to 50 per cent, with a few exceptions. These additional tariffs will take effect on August 27, while the initial round became effective globally from Thursday.
Trump also hinted at more punitive measures, warning India of possible “secondary sanctions.”
“Let’s see what happens. You’re going to see a lot more... so much secondary sanctions,” he told reporters outside the White House.
During his address, PM Modi also released a commemorative coin and postage stamp in memory of Dr MS Swaminathan, a pioneering figure in agricultural science and the father of India’s Green Revolution.
Praising Dr Swaminathan’s lifelong contributions, the Prime Minister said:
“While the world is discussing biodiversity and governments are acting to protect it, Dr Swaminathan went a step further. He gave us the concept of bio-happiness. With the strength of biodiversity, he believed we can truly transform the lives of local communities.”