At the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a defiant statement that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers, dairy producers, and fishermen, even if it means bearing a “heavy personal price”.
His remarks were widely interpreted as a response to intensified U.S. tariffs, which have surged to 50%, primarily targeting Indian exports amid the ongoing trade standoff.
Why It Matters
- Strong Agriculture Protection: His statement underscores that India will safeguard agricultural livelihoods amid international pressure.
- Trade Standoff Context: The announcement comes in the wake of U.S. demands for access to Indian agri-markets and rising tariffs targeting India’s energy supply choices.
- Personal Commitment: PM Modi emphasized he is personally prepared to bear any political or economic cost to uphold farmer welfare.
Broader Impact & Implications
This firm assertion signals a clear message to both domestic audiences and international negotiators: India’s agricultural sector is off-limits for compromise. The Prime Minister reiterated that protecting farmers, dairy workers, and fishermen is non-negotiable.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Event | M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference |
| Core Message | Farmers’ welfare is top priority; ready to bear heavy price |
| Context | Rising U.S. tariffs up to 50% amid trade tensions |
| Strategic Implication | India is not yielding on agri-sector demands |
