“‘Those Who Are Big-Hearted…’: Rajnath Singh on US Tariffs Against India”

Rajnath Singh on US 50% Tariffs: ‘Big-Hearted Nations Don’t React Hastily’

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh defended India’s calm stance amid the Trump administration’s criticism over Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil and support for Moscow, which led to US tariffs exceeding 50% on Indian exports. Speaking to the Indian trading community in Morocco, Singh said, “Those who are broad-minded and big-hearted refrain from reacting. We didn’t react. Big-hearted nations do not respond immediately to everything.”

The tariffs, described by the Indian government as “unfair and unreasonable,” are seen as an attempt to curb India’s economic growth. Singh highlighted India’s progress, saying, “No one can stop India from becoming a superpower,” while subtly taking a dig at Trump, calling him a “sabka boss” unable to accept India’s rise.

Emphasizing self-reliance, Singh praised strides under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, noting record growth in defence production and exports. At the foundation-laying of Bharat Earth Movers Limited’s new rail hub in Madhya Pradesh, he stated, “We are not only manufacturing on Indian soil but also exporting globally. This is the new defence sector of the new India.”

Singh’s remarks underscored India’s diplomatic restraint while affirming its industrial and economic ambitions amid global trade tensions.