India hits back at US tariff hike, PM Modi says nation will not compromise on farmers’ interests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday issued a firm yet indirect response to US President Donald Trump’s latest tariff escalation on India, stating that the country will "never compromise" on the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and dairy producers, Times of India reports. Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, PM Modi said, “For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers.” Without directly naming the United States or President Trump, the Prime Minister acknowledged the potential fallout of such a stance. “I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,” he added.The remarks come in the wake of a second round of steep tariffs announced by the US administration. After imposing a 25 per cent duty last week, President Trump on Wednesday announced an additional 25 per cent levy on Indian goods in response to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil — bringing the total US duties on Indian imports to 50 per cent, among the highest levied by Washington on any country.The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on August 27, giving both sides a narrow window for potential negotiations.India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also issued a strongly worded statement, criticising the US move as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”“It is extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest,” the MEA said.India defended its energy policy, stating that its oil imports — including those from Russia — are based on market dynamics and aimed at securing energy needs for its 1.4 billion citizens. “We reiterate that these actions are unfair... India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests,” the statement added.The tariffs come amid rising geopolitical friction and divergent economic priorities between Washington and New Delhi. While the US has repeatedly raised concerns about India’s oil trade with Russia, India has maintained that its decisions are guided by national interest, affordability, and energy security.Analysts warn that the sudden spike in US import duties could escalate into a broader trade conflict, potentially affecting bilateral relations and India’s export sectors ranging from pharmaceuticals to textiles.

Despite the pressure, the Indian leadership appears unfazed. PM Modi’s remarks signal New Delhi’s readiness to weather potential economic costs in pursuit of strategic autonomy and rural welfare — even at the risk of trade retaliation from a key global partner.>