Even as global trade tensions rise and pressure mounts from the United States over India’s purchase of Russian oil and its agricultural policies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has drawn a clear line in the sand — India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, fisherfolk, and livestock rearers, no matter the cost.
Speaking at the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference on Thursday, the Prime Minister delivered a stirring declaration that resonated with millions across the nation. For us, the interests of our farmers are the highest priority.
India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers, and fisherfolk. I know I will personally have to pay a very heavy price for this, but I am ready. Today, India is prepared for the farmers of my country, for the fisherfolk of my country, and the livestock rearers of my country,” Modi said with conviction.
His words came against the backdrop of intensifying trade negotiations with the US, which is demanding zero-duty access for its agricultural and dairy products in India — a move that could threaten the livelihoods of millions of Indian farmers.
Standing Firm Against External Pressure
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% penalty on most imports from India, raising overall duties on some goods to a staggering 50%. Among the targeted products are shrimp, a vital Indian export and livelihood for coastal fishing communities.
The US cited India’s continued oil trade with Russia as a trigger for the punitive action. However, India has strongly defended its energy decisions, emphasizing that energy security for 1.4 billion citizens is a non-negotiable national priority.
“Some things are non-negotiable on principle. We can’t import GM crops,” a senior Indian official said, reaffirming that genetically modified imports like corn and soya will not be allowed, despite US pressure.
Agriculture — The Soul of India’s Growth
PM Modi underscored that his government’s mission is to:
- Raise farmers’ incomes
- Lower cultivation costs
- Create new sources of rural earnings
“Our farmers are not just the backbone of our economy — they are the heartbeat of our nation,” he said. “Their strength is the foundation on which India’s future will be built.”
India’s Message to the World
The Ministry of External Affairs issued a strong rebuttal to the US move, calling it “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”
“Unfortunately, the US has chosen to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their national interest,” the MEA stated, pointing to Europe and China’s continued purchases of Russian energy without facing similar penalties.
India has made it clear — no foreign pressure will dictate its sovereign decisions.
In this defining moment, the message from New Delhi is clear:
India will chart its destiny. India will protect its people. And India will rise to a point where the world will look up to her, not as a market to be exploited, but as a power to be respected.
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