‘India Will Not Bow’: Farmers Back PM Modi’s Strong Message To U.S.

India Will Not Bow: PM Modi’s Message to Farmers

New Delhi | August 7, 2025

In a bold and defiant message aimed at both domestic and international audiences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday reaffirmed India’s commitment to protecting the interests of its farmers in the face of mounting U.S. pressure over agricultural trade policies. Addressing a large gathering of farmers in Uttar Pradesh, Modi declared, “India will not bow to external demands that threaten the livelihoods of our annadatas (food providers).”

The statement comes amid rising tensions between Washington and New Delhi, with the United States accusing India of maintaining “unfair” subsidies and import restrictions that allegedly distort global trade. Recent reports suggest the U.S. may consider raising tariffs on certain Indian agricultural exports, including rice and sugar, if New Delhi does not agree to revise its farm support policies.

However, Modi made it clear that India’s agricultural policies are non-negotiable when it comes to protecting the nation’s food security and the dignity of its farmers. “They want us to open our markets, but are we to do so at the cost of our farmers? This is not acceptable. India will decide its policies in Delhi, not in Washington,” the Prime Minister said, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd.

Defending Indian Farmers

Modi emphasized the importance of government support in ensuring minimum income guarantees and market stability for millions of small and marginal farmers. He highlighted the PM-KISAN scheme, subsidized crop insurance, and procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) as vital pillars of India’s rural economy.

“Our farmers don’t need charity. They need fair opportunities, fair prices, and respect,” Modi asserted. “We have a duty to safeguard our agricultural traditions and ensure our youth remain rooted in the soil.”

Strategic Message

The speech is being seen by analysts as part of a larger geopolitical balancing act. While India continues to expand economic and strategic cooperation with the U.S., it is also asserting its sovereign right to determine domestic policy—especially in critical sectors like agriculture, where national sentiment runs deep.

Senior government officials confirmed that India has responded firmly to trade queries from the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), maintaining that its subsidies are well within the limits set by the World Trade Organization (WTO) for developing nations.

Opposition Reacts

Opposition leaders welcomed Modi’s strong language but criticized the government’s “inconsistency” in dealing with farmers’ issues. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said, “The Prime Minister must show the same resolve in addressing MSP guarantees and loan waivers that farmers are demanding back home.”

Despite the criticism, Modi’s statement has resonated with rural communities and farmer unions, many of whom have expressed support for the government’s tough stance against external pressure.

Looking Ahead

As trade negotiations with the U.S. continue behind closed doors, Modi’s remarks send a clear signal: India’s agriculture sector will not be dictated by global powers. In the words of the Prime Minister, “India’s soil has never bowed to invaders, nor will its farmers bow to unjust demands today.”

Highlights:

PM Modi says India will not bow to U.S. pressure over farm subsidies and trade rules.
Defends MSP and support schemes as essential for protecting farmers and food security.
Asserts India’s sovereign right to set its own agricultural policies.

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