PM Modi defies Trump's tariff threats, says ready to pay the price

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in what appeared to be a veiled message to US President Donald Trump, on Thursday reaffirmed that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers and dairy sector. He added that he is even willing to bear personal consequences, if needed, to safeguard these national priorities.

The statement came a day after Trump ratcheted up tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent, even as the two nations discuss a bilateral trade deal. The trade deal has been struck over the US demand for greater access to India's agricultural and dairy market.

It wants reduced tariffs on products like corn, soybeans, apples, almonds and ethanol, as well as increased access for US dairy products. New Delhi is, however, resisting these demands as these will have a direct bearing on farmers.

"For us, the interests of farmers are our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen," Modi said, addressing a three-day global conference to mark the birth centenary of late renowned agri-scientist M S Swaminathan.

To protect farmers' interests, the prime minister said he was ready to personally pay the huge price. "I know that I will personally have to pay a heavy price. But I am ready for it," he said.

Further, he said, "Today, India is ready (to pay the price) for the fishermen and dairy farmers."

During his address, the prime minister highlighted various schemes implemented by the government for the all-around development of the farm and allied sector. He stressed the need to sustain food production amid the growing challenges of climate change.

Modi called for developing more climate-resilient varieties of crops, including heat-resistant.