How Important is the Protection of Farmers and Exporters According to the Government?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The government prioritizes safeguarding farmers and exporters amidst tariff challenges.
- Approximately 55 percent of India's exports to the US impacted by new tariffs.
- Reciprocal tariffs of 25 percent initiated on August 7.
- Active engagement with stakeholders to assess the situation.
- Government emphasizes national interests in trade policies.
New Delhi, Aug 11 (NationPress) The government emphasizes the paramount importance of safeguarding and enhancing the welfare of farmers, entrepreneurs, exporters, and MSMEs. Necessary measures will be adopted to uphold national interests, as stated in Parliament on Monday.
According to Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, approximately 55 percent of India's total merchandise exports to the US will be affected by the reciprocal tariff. This was communicated in a written response to queries in the Lok Sabha.
A reciprocal tariff set at 25 percent was enacted on specific goods exported from India to the US beginning August 7, with an additional 25 percent tariff slated to commence August 27 for Russian energy imports.
Chaudhary noted, "Various factors, including product differentiation, demand, quality, and contractual arrangements, will influence the ramifications on India's exports."
"The Department of Commerce is actively collaborating with all stakeholders, including exporters and industry representatives, to gather their evaluations regarding the situation. The government prioritizes the protection and promotion of our farmers, entrepreneurs, exporters, MSMEs, and will undertake all necessary actions to defend our national interests," he added.
New Delhi has asserted that the recent tariff measures imposed by US President Donald Trump are unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable. The government previously articulated its stance on these matters, highlighting that India's imports are driven by market dynamics aimed at ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion citizens.
"It is, therefore, highly regrettable that the US opts to impose further tariffs on India for actions that numerous other nations are also pursuing in their own national interests," stated the official communication.
The newly implemented tariffs will apply to all qualifying Indian goods entering the US 21 days after the signing of the order, with exceptions for shipments already in transit before the deadline and cleared before September 17.