Sorry economists, the foreign policy experts are right on Trump

Swaminathan S Anklesaria AiyarTNN
Aug 30, 2025 | 19:32 IST
India supplies nearly half of US’s generic drugs, but its real leverage lies in its power to block patents of Big Pharma and issue compulsory licences to desi firms

The experts advocate a firm stance, urging India to resist yielding to pressure to abandon its independent foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia. Countermeasures, like reconsidering US arms purchases and leveraging pharmaceutical patents, are proposed to demonstrate resolve and protect India's interests.

According to German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, PM Narendra Modi apparently declined to take four calls from President Donald Trump. Though neither Washington nor Delhi have confirmed this, it’s marvellous if it’s true. This reported snub sends a clear message that India will not be cowed by a capricious bully.

Trump has imposed an additional 25% tariff on imports from India, which now total 50%. This is among the highest he has levied on any country. The US is treating India as a foe.
Copyright © 2024 Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service.