India, Aug. 7 -- Reacting to the US tariffs for the first time, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has reiterated his resolve to protect the interests of India's farm, dairy and fisheries sectors even in the face of adversity. Modi's statement, delivered at a programme marking MS Swaminathan's birth centenary, gives the first official hint that India's refusal to succumb to US demands for opening up these critical sectors was a key factor in Trump's 25% tariffs, on which he added another 25% on Wednesday. Given the fact that trade negotiations between India and US are far from over, the PM's assertion draws an important red line for the terms of the talks.

The government of India is absolutely justified in sticking to its position in prot...