Sovereignty over Sanctions

dia's Bold Stance

In August 2025, the United States announced a 50% tariff on Indian exports such as textiles, gems, machinery, and marine products. This drastic step came in response to India’s decision to continue purchasing discounted Russian oil. Despite repeated attempts by the U.S. to coerce India into aligning with its geopolitical interests, India’s stance remains firm: the needs and aspirations of our 1.4 billion citizens cannot be sacrificed at the altar of pressure and power play. Notably, the U.S. itself has often been accused of supporting policies in South Asia—including sheltering and arming Pakistan-backed groups—that threatened India’s national security.

While this move has led to short-term volatility in the rupee and stock markets, India's economic fundamentals and growth remain evident, nowhere close to the "dead economy" as the US president calls it. India remains the fastest growing economy in the world on the back of initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat that have strengthened domestic manufacturing and reduced dependence, hence ensuring our economic and industrial stability in such circumstances. At the same time, India is actively diversifying its geopolitical and trade portfolios, deepening ties with Africa, ASEAN, BRICS and the middle east to cushion the impact of US measures .

The tariffs may appear to be a setback, but in reality, they highlight India’s rising importance in the global order and strengthen its candidacy as a future leader of a multipolar world. Rather than yielding to external dictates, India continues to assert its sovereign right to independent decision-making. This stance not only safeguards national interest but also inspires other developing nations to demand fairer and more equal global practices.

India’s message to the world is simple yet powerful: we will engage with all, but only on terms that prioritize fairness, resilience, and the well-being of our people.