As the deadline (August 27) for the doubling of the existing 25 per cent tariff by the US nears, Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a defiant note, saying the government will not yield to pressure.
The initial 25 per cent tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump on Indian imports came into effect on August 7, and an additional 25 per cent duty will come into effect on August 27 (Wednesday).
Speaking at an event in Ahmedabad in Gujarat, he said, "No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand it," according to media reports.
He promised to ensure that the government will do everything possible to protect small entrepreneurs, farmers, and cattle rearers, saying their interests are paramount to him.
"My government will never let any harm come to the small entrepreneurs, farmers, and animal keepers. No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand. Today, the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is getting a lot of energy from Gujarat and behind this are two decades of hard work"
Further, he urged people to prioritise purchasing goods that are made in India.
"This is the season of festivals. Now Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, Diwali... all these festivals are coming. These are celebrations of our culture, but they should also be celebrations of self-reliance," the PM said, and urged people to take the decision to buy 'Made in India' products.
Whether it is decorative items or gifts, let us choose products manufactured within our own nation, Modi said.
He requested businesses to refrain from selling items sourced from other countries. "These small yet impactful steps can play a significant role in driving our nation's progress and prosperity," PM Modi said.
The ties between India and the US are on a downturn after US President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to a whopping 50 per cent, including a 25 per cent additional duties, for India's purchase of Russian crude oil. Defending its purchase of Russian crude oil, India has been maintaining that its energy procurement is driven by national interest and market dynamics.