In a resolute address on August 7, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers, despite escalating trade tensions with the United States. Modi's remarks came in response to the U.S. imposing additional tariffs on Indian goods, a move that has intensified the ongoing trade standoff between the two nations.

Addressing the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, Modi stated, "For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers. I know personally, I will have to pay a heavy price for it, but I am ready for it." This statement underscores India's determination to prioritize domestic agricultural interests over external pressures.

The U.S. administration, led by President Donald Trump, has recently escalated trade tensions by imposing a 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing concerns over India's continued import of Russian oil. This action has raised fears of a potential trade fallout, particularly affecting key sectors such as textiles, footwear, gems, and jewelry.

In response to these developments, the Indian government has initiated extensive consultations with exporters, industry bodies, and relevant stakeholders to assess the potential impact of the new U.S. trade actions and to formulate an effective response strategy. The objective is to safeguard the interests of a broad spectrum of the Indian economy, including farmers, laborers, entrepreneurs, industrialists, exporters, and micro, small, and medium enterprises .

Prime Minister Modi's strong stance reflects India's broader strategy to bolster self-reliance and reduce dependency on foreign markets. He has urged citizens to support domestic industries by purchasing Indian-made products, emphasizing the importance of economic self-sufficiency in the face of global trade challenges.

As the trade dispute continues, both nations are engaged in ongoing dialogues to address the underlying issues and seek a mutually beneficial resolution. The outcome of these discussions will significantly influence the future trajectory of U.S.-India relations and the broader global economic landscape.