India-US Tariff War / PM Modi's game plan on Russian oil will leave Trump stunned!

India-US Tariff War: US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on India over oil purchases from Russia, including warnings of 25% tariffs and tough measures. Despite this, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made it clear at a rally in Uttar Pradesh that India will take decisions based on its economic needs and national interests. Calling for a self-reliant India, he said, "We will buy only what is made in the country or is in the national interest."

Oil purchase:

India's independent stance According to a Bloomberg report, the Indian government has not given any order to oil companies to stop buying Russian oil. State-owned and private oil companies have been given the freedom to take decisions based on commercial benefits. However, in view of US pressure, some companies have been asked to plan for alternative sources, but this is being considered only as a precautionary step. Criticism of Trump administration Trump has criticized India's activism in BRICS and ties with Russia. He associated India with "dead economies", which is contrary to the US strategy in which India was considered a strategic partner against China. Trump's Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller accused India of "heavy taxes" and "immigration fraud", and compared Russian oil purchases to China.

India's restrained response

Foreign Ministry spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said, "Our bilateral relations are based on freedom and strength, they should not be seen from the perspective of a third country." India reiterated its commitment to prioritize national interests, underlining its time-tested relations with Russia. Also, trade talks with the US will continue, but India has refused to open markets in the dairy and agriculture sector.

Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India

Modi emphasized self-reliance in the era of global instability. He said, "Our criterion will be that whatever we buy should be made with the hard work of India." This is part of the 'Make in India' campaign, which has now become more relevant under US pressure. Modi talked about giving priority to farmers, small industries and jobs of youth.

Russia: India's largest oil supplier

After the Ukraine war, India has become the largest customer of oil from Russia. Cheap Russian oil has made up one-third of India's total oil imports. This has raised the ire of the US and the EU, but India has prioritised its energy needs.