India Will Pay Any Price to Protect Farmers’ Interests: PM Modi

New Delhi, Aug 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declared that India is prepared to bear any cost to safeguard its agricultural sector, including the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy producers. He made these remarks while addressing the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi.

“For us, the interests of our farmers are of utmost priority. India will never compromise on the rights of its farmers, fishermen, or dairy farmers,” said PM Modi. “I know there will be a heavy price to pay, but I am ready for it. India is ready for it.”

His comments come in the wake of a significant escalation in trade tensions between India and the United States. On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order raising tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 50%, citing India’s imports of Russian oil as a national security threat to the U.S. The order stated that direct or indirect purchases of Russian oil by India pose an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to American interests.

Starting August 7, a 25% tariff will be levied on Indian exports to the U.S., with an additional 25% set to take effect on August 27, effectively doubling the tariff. Analysts warn that this may make Indian goods less competitive in the U.S. market and lead to a potential drop in demand, as American importers may turn to alternate sources.

PM Modi’s strong statement is being interpreted as a direct response to the U.S. administration’s move, underlining India’s resolve to prioritize agricultural welfare over foreign pressure.

Speaking at the conference, PM Modi paid tribute to Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, calling him a visionary whose contributions extended far beyond his time. “There are some personalities whose work transcends generations. Prof. Swaminathan dedicated his life to ensuring India’s food security and turned science into a tool for public service,” he said.

Reflecting on his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat, Modi noted how Prof. Swaminathan had guided the development of the Soil Health Card initiative, which became a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture in the state.

The Prime Minister also highlighted key government initiatives for farmers, including:

• PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, which provides direct financial support to small farmers,
• PM Fasal Bima Yojana, offering crop insurance,
• PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana for improving irrigation,
• Creation of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to strengthen collective bargaining,
• e-NAM (National Agricultural Market), facilitating better price discovery and transparency.

“Inspired by Swaminathan’s vision, we are committed to empowering every farmer in the country,” PM Modi concluded.