The world is in flux, and India is being tested. But every challenge is also an opportunity. Tariffs and global headwinds should not weaken our resolve; they must galvanise us. India must act boldly to seize this moment. This is our once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead. We must not let it slip.

From August 27, India faces a 50% tariff, among the highest of President Donald Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs. The US accuses India of financing Russia by buying Russian oil. However, Türkiye, the largest importer of Russian oil products, faces 15% tariffs, the same as the European Union, which has paid 297 billion euros for Russian gas since January 2022. The White House also remains unaware of US imports of palladium or fertilisers from Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has heavily invested in the Indo-US economic, trade, and political relationship. However, the US’s antagonistic stance will impact future cooperation. Our strong institutional memory emphasises our strategic autonomy.

Let us be clear, our energy security and strategic autonomy cannot be compromised. Let us also be clear that this is not about Russia. India is rightfully refusing to bend, as we have so many times in our history. Global pressure should not intimidate us. It should galvanise us into pushing through the once-in-a-generation reforms India urgently needs.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was India’s most significant tax reform. Seven years on, collections are rising, and GST has enabled........

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