During a public address in Uttar Pradesh on August 3, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a strong message of economic self-reliance, emphasizing support for the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The statement came in response to a 25% tariff on Indian goods recently announced by US President Donald Trump, alongside growing pressure on India to curb its oil imports from Russia.
“We must adopt a single rule while buying—choose only what is made with the hard work of Indian hands,” Modi asserted, rallying citizens toward indigenous production amidst increasing global volatility.
Trump’s rhetoric has sharpened in recent days, accusing India of exploiting US trade and immigration policies while maintaining close energy ties with Moscow. His former deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, accused India of high trade barriers and warned that Washington would explore all tools — diplomatic and financial — to pressure nations that continue engaging with Russia.
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump dismissed India’s participation in BRICS by mocking it as an alliance of “dead economies.” These remarks have rattled diplomatic circles as they reflect a notable shift from previous US bipartisan efforts to treat India as a strategic partner.
In response, Modi maintained that India’s relationship with Russia remains essential to its energy security, especially as the global economy faces widespread instability. “Our farmers, our small businesses, and our youth’s jobs are central to our decision-making,” Modi told the crowd in Varanasi.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs backed this position, underscoring that India evaluates all international partnerships based on national interest. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that New Delhi remains committed to independent, sovereign policymaking and longstanding ties with trusted partners.
Meanwhile, US trade officials are scheduled to arrive in India later this month to continue negotiations on various contentious issues, including market access for American agriculture and genetically modified products. However, Indian officials have signaled that such items remain off the table due to cultural and political sensitivities.
As tensions grow, observers note the potential for broader financial or diplomatic consequences from Washington. Still, India appears resolute in safeguarding its economic autonomy, signaling tough talks ahead amid a shifting global balance of power.
