Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday struck a defiant note ahead of steep US tariffs on Indian exports, effective August 27, asserting that India will withstand the pressure and protect the interests of its people.

Speaking at a public gathering in Ahmedabad, PM Modi said his government is determined to find solutions despite Washington’s move to double duties on Indian goods. “No matter how much pressure we face, we will continue to build strength to resist it. Atmanirbhar Bharat is receiving immense momentum from Gujarat, backed by two decades of effort,” he declared.

Calling out global protectionism, Modi remarked, “Today the world is witnessing policies driven by economic selfishness. From the land of Gandhi, I assure small shopkeepers, farmers, cattle rearers, and entrepreneurs that their interests are my top priority. My government will never allow them to suffer.”

This comes after US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% duty on Indian imports—bringing the total levy to 50%—citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The unexpected decision also led to a delay in the much-anticipated Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), previously expected later this year.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump defended the move, claiming India imposed “some of the highest tariffs in the world” along with restrictive non-monetary barriers. He added that despite being considered a friend, Washington’s trade with New Delhi had remained limited due to these hurdles.

Modi, however, has emphasized self-reliance in recent speeches, including his Independence Day address, where he urged citizens to embrace ‘swadeshi’ products and expressed solidarity with farmers and fishermen. “India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and livestock keepers. We will oppose any policy that harms them,” he reiterated.

Meanwhile, India is pursuing trade pacts with the UK, EU, EFTA, and ASEAN, while also strengthening energy ties and lobbying in Washington to ensure that long-term strategic convergence with the US is not derailed by the ongoing tariff standoff.