Trump's Tariffs: America First?

In an apparent swipe at US President Donald Trump and his tariffs, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that "we are the world's boss" is driving such policies.

Speaking at the foundation ceremony of the

BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen, Rajnath on Sunday said that India on the back of its "homegrown strength" has become the envy of those who think "we are the world's boss", according to The Times of India.

"Many wonder how India is growing at such a fast pace. They are trying their best to ensure goods made in India by Indians are costlier than goods made in their countries. They feel this will ensure that when goods made in India become expensive, the world wouldn't buy them. They are putting in much effort to ensure this,"

said Singh.

Trump has slapped 50 per cent tariffs on India — he imposed 25 per cent tariff on July 31 as part of the broader rollout for over 60 countries and topped that with 25 per cent tariff last week for India's purchase of Russian oil. Estimates say these tariffs could cut Indian exports to the United States by up to 60 per cent.

Firstpost has previously reported that the government is considering floating a support package for exporters from the most vulnerable sectors, such as marine products, textiles, and

edibles.

Gadkari slams Trump's 'dadagiri'

In separate remarks slamming Trump without naming him, Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that countries doing “dadagiri” (bullying) in today's world are able to do so because they are economically strong and have technology, according to PTI.

Gadkari said that no one will be able to bully India if India's exports and economy pick up pace.

"If the rate of our exports and economy increase, then I don't think we will need to go to anyone. Those who are indulging in

`dadagiri' are doing so because they are economically strong, and they have technology. If we get better technology and resources, we will not bully anyone, because our culture teaches us that welfare of the world is most important," said Gadkari.

In another tariff-related development, the foreign secretary will join commerce ministry officials to brief the parliamentary foreign affairs committee on Trump's tariffs on Monday. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor chairs the committee.