PM Modi Assures Protection for Small Entrepreneurs, Farmers Amid US Tariffs

Ahmedabad: In a strong message against rising trade pressures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday assured that his government will not allow small entrepreneurs, farmers, and animal keepers to suffer due to external challenges such as tariffs imposed by the United States.

Without directly naming US President Donald Trump, Modi referred to Washington's decision to double duties on Indian goods. "Be it small entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, farmers, or animal husbandry workers, your interests are paramount. My government will never let any harm come to you. No matter how much pressure comes, we will keep increasing our strength to withstand it," he said while addressing a gathering in Ahmedabad.

The Prime Minister highlighted that India's Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan draws its strength from Gujarat, backed by two decades of reforms and development.

On National Security and Swadeshi Spirit

Speaking on Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, Modi described it as a symbol of India's military valour. He also accused previous governments of neglecting Mahatma Gandhi's principles of Swadeshi, asserting that the spirit of self-reliance and cleanliness (Swachhata) has been revived under his leadership.

High-Level Meeting on Tariff Impact

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister's Office will hold a high-level meeting on August 26 to assess the implications of steep US tariffs on Indian exporters. From Wednesday, Indian goods entering the American market will face 50% duties, doubling cost pressures on businesses.

The meeting, expected to be chaired by the Principal Secretary to the PM, will explore strategies to support exporters in sectors likely to be hit hardest by the new trade barriers.