India values its relationship with the United States. But friendship must be built on mutual respect, not unilateral demands. We cannot accept a framework where one side dictates terms and the other is expected to comply without question.

The recent announcement by the United States to impose a 25% tariff - along with a further 25% penalty for buying oil from Russia, making a total of 50% - on Indian exports is not merely a trade manoeuvre. It is a moment of reckoning for India's economic diplomacy.

While some may interpret this move as a bargaining tactic in the midst of ongoing negotiations, we must not underestimate its potential impact.

If implemented in full, these measures could severely damage our export economy and undermine the very foundation of our strategic partnership with the United States.

Let us be clear: the American market is significant.

Our exports to the US alone amount to nearly $90 billion. A dramatic drop in access could cost us up to half a percentage point of GDP - a blow we cannot afford in a fragile global economic climate. But while the stakes are high, so too must be our resolve.

Source:Ndtv