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PM Modi’s Independence Day speech firmly opposed US trade sanctions, vowing to protect Indian farmers and energy needs. Announced measures to counter 25% tariffs while reinforcing Atmanirbhar Bharat’s self-reliance vision against global economic coercion.
Trump Threatens India With New Tariffs Over Russia Oil Purchases
New Delhi: In his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unequivocally told US President Donald Trump that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and livestock farmers at any cost.
This statement comes at a time when the US is pressuring India to further open its agricultural market, as well as impose a 25% additional duty on Indian goods. The US has described it as a "punishment" for India's import of Russian oil.
Modi's tough stand
PM Modi said, "If any policy is against the farmers, fishermen, and cattle rearers of India, then Modi stands like a wall." He further said that "We should not spend our energy to shorten the line of others but should focus on lengthening our own line."
The comment was made in the context of growing economic selfishness at the global level, where India needs to emphasize its self-reliance.
US sanctions and India's response
- The US has targeted India by imposing a 25% additional tariff on Indian goods, the reason for which is oil imports from Russia.
- India responded by calling these sanctions "unfair, unjust, and irrational" and said that India's oil imports are based on market needs to ensure energy security for 1.4 billion people.
- The Commerce Ministry has initiated detailed discussions with exporters, industry associations, and stakeholders to assess the impact of these restrictions and formulate an effective strategy.
India's path to self-reliance
PM Modi stressed that "in this era of global selfishness, India has to rely on its own strength." Taking forward the policy of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat,' he said that India will no longer compromise the interests of its citizens under any external pressure.
"Self-respect vs. pressure"
This speech of Prime Minister Modi made it clear that India will no longer bow down to the economic pressure of any country. Whether it is trade pressure from America or the challenges of global politics, India will move forward on the path of self-reliance while protecting the interests of its farmers, laborers, and industries. This message is a lesson not only for America but for the whole world that India will no longer silently accept any unjust policy.
