Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia today following an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman. This would be Modi's third visit to Saudi Arabia and the first in his third term.

PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today; India to push for revival of IMEC

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance welcomed the significant progress in the negotiations for a US India bilateral trade agreement as they met in New Delhi.

PM Modi, Vance welcome 'significant progress' in trade talks

PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today: Energy, trade and defence partnership on agenda

PM Modi and US Vice President JD Vance hail 'significant progress' in trade talks.

Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure. The Vatican has released the death certificate of the late pontiff. World leaders are mourning the loss of Pope Francis. US President Donald Trump has called him a strong and spiritual voice in a divided world. Watch in for more details!

Pope Francis dies: Trump, Putin and other world leaders react to Pope Francis’ death

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the American Vice President JD Vance and his Indian origin wife Usha Vance on Monday (April 21) after a discussion of key issues such as tariffs with the US VP.&nbsp;
The US vice president, his wife, Usha, and their three children -- Ewan, Vivek and Mirabel -- are scheduled to land at the Palam airbase here at 10 am on Monday on a four-day India visit. The couple is likely to visit Delhi's Akshardham temple.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-christian-jd-vance-slammed-for-sharing-good-friday-wishes-because-he-has-hindu-wife-8978356">'Fake Christian': JD Vance slammed for sharing Good Friday wishes BECAUSE he has Hindu wife</a>
The US VP and his family are expected to be welcomed by a senior Indian Union minister on their arrival. Apart from Delhi, the family is also scheduled to visit Jaipur and Agra.&nbsp;
Vance is likely to be accompanied by at least five senior officials. The officials are reportedly likely from the Pentagon and the State Department, NDTV reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-meet-pm-modi-jd-vance-to-visit-india-with-second-family-personal-visit-or-talks-on-tariffs-unleashed-by-trump-8969834">&lsquo;To meet PM Modi&rsquo;: JD Vance to visit India with second family &ndash; personal visit or talks on tariffs unleashed by Trump?</a>
The sources also said that just hours after landing in India, Vance and family are scheduled to visit the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple and could also go to a shopping complex selling traditional Indian handcrafted goods.&nbsp;
<h2>The schedule </h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/college-football-watch-video-us-vice-president-jd-vance-fumbles-osu-national-championship-trophy-white-house-visit-then-says-i-decided-to-break-it-8965107">WATCH - US vice president JD Vance fumbles OSU's national championship trophy then says 'I decided to break it'</a>
There are reports that PM Modi will host Vance for talks that are expected to focus on an early finalisation of the proposed India-US bilateral trade agreement.&nbsp;
After this, the Indian PM is likely to host the US VP and other officials for dinner.&nbsp;
Sources familiar with the matter told NDTV that Vance and his family leave for Jaipur on Monday night.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oops-video-shows-moment-vance-dropped-college-football-trophy-so-i-decided-to-break-it-8962625">Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World |  India News | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the American Vice President JD Vance and his Indian origin wife Usha Vance on Monday (April 21) after a discussion of key issues such as tariffs with the US VP.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the American Vice President JD Vance and his Indian origin wife Usha Vance on Monday (April 21) after a discussion of key issues such as tariffs with the US VP. The US vice president, his wife, Usha, and their three children -- Ewan, Vivek and Mirabel -- are scheduled to land at the Palam airbase here at 10 am on Monday on a four-day India visit. The couple is likely to visit Delhi's Akshardham temple. Also read: 'Fake Christian': JD Vance slammed for sharing Good Friday wishes BECAUSE he has Hindu wife The US VP and his family are expected to be welcomed by a senior Indian Union minister on their arrival. Apart from Delhi, the family is also scheduled to visit Jaipur and Agra. Vance is likely to be accompanied by at least five senior officials. The officials are reportedly likely from the Pentagon and the State Department, NDTV reported. Also read: ‘To meet PM Modi’: JD Vance to visit India with second family – personal visit or talks on tariffs unleashed by Trump? The sources also said that just hours after landing in India, Vance and family are scheduled to visit the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple and could also go to a shopping complex selling traditional Indian handcrafted goods. The schedule Also read: WATCH - US vice president JD Vance fumbles OSU's national championship trophy then says 'I decided to break it' There are reports that PM Modi will host Vance for talks that are expected to focus on an early finalisation of the proposed India-US bilateral trade agreement. After this, the Indian PM is likely to host the US VP and other officials for dinner. Sources familiar with the matter told NDTV that Vance and his family leave for Jaipur on Monday night. Also read: Oops! Video shows moment Vance dropped college football trophy: '...so I decided to break it' (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to host JD Vance and wife Usha during their 4-day visit to India

A Dawoodi Bohra delegation met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed their gratitude for the recently enacted Waqf Amendment Act, calling it a long-pending demand of the community.

PM Modi meets Dawoodi Bohra delegation, community leaders extend support for Waqf Amendment Act

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the 2.08 km New Pamban Bridge - the country's first vertical-lift sea bridge - in Tamil Nadu on the occasion of Ram Navami.

India: PM Modi's historic bridge inauguration in Rameshwaram post Sri Lanka visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday targeted Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin during the ongoing language debate, remarking that while he often receives letters from leaders in the state, none of them are signed in Tamil. He added that if they genuinely take pride in their language, they should at least sign their names in Tamil.

Language row: PM Modi takes a swipe at Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin

India: PM Modi inaugurates Pamban bridge in Rameshwaram

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (Apr 6), inaugurated India's first vertical lift sea bridge in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu. PM Modi, along with Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, flagged off the first train traversing the New Pambam Bridge. Watch in for more details!

PM Modi inaugurates Pamban Bridge - India's first vertical lift sea bridge in Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi  accompanied by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reached Anuradhapura on Sunday (April 6). During the visit PM Modi and Dissanayake jointly launched the Maho-Anuradhapura railway signalling system and the newly upgraded Maho-Omanthai railway line, both of which were established with assistance from the Indian government.

PM Modi in Sri Lanka: PM Modi flags off train at Anuradhapura railway station

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple and flag off a special train at Anuradhapura station on the last day of his Sri Lanka visit. Earlier, India and Sri Lanka signed a far-reaching defense cooperation deal following delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Anura Kumara Disanayaka.

Sri Lanka visit day 2: PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate Anuradhapura railway line

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake signed seven MoUs, including a landmark defence cooperation deal. The agreements aim to boost ties in energy, trade, connectivity, digitalisation, and defence during Modi's three-day visit to Colombo.

7 MoUs between Sri Lanka, India exchanged during PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit

PM Modi Sri Lanka visit: India, Sri Lanka ink 7 MoUs, including defence deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President ‪Anura Dissanayake hold joint press meet in Colombo, Sri Lanka. They also jointly launch projects in Sri Lanka which have been developed with Indian assistance.

PM Modi honoured with Sri Lanka's highest civilian award for boosting bilateral ties

India agrees to assist in the renovation of Thirukoneswaram Temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate India&rsquo;s first vertical lift sea bridge, the new Pamban Rail Bridge in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on April 6, 2025. This innaugration event coincides with the auspicious festival of Ram Navami, celebrated across the country to honour the birth of Lord Rama.
The original Pamban Bridge, constructed in 1914, was a pioneering engineering feat of its time, connecting Rameswaram Island to mainland India. Over the decades, the bridge faced challenges due to aging infrastructure and increasing transportation demands, eventually leading to its closure in 2022.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/vanguard-nasa-wants-to-bring-back-this-67-year-old-satellite-to-earth-8929474">'Vanguard': NASA wants to bring back this 67-year-old satellite to Earth</a>
Key Features of the new Pamban Rail Bridge
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Vertical Lift Mechanism: The bridge features a 72-meter electro-mechanical vertical lift span that can be raised in approximately five minutes, allowing maritime traffic to pass underneath.</li>
<li class="li1">Enhanced Clearance: With a clearance of 22 meters above sea level &mdash; a significant upgrade from the old bridge's 1.5 meters &mdash; the new structure can accommodate larger vessels.</li>
<li class="li1">Improved Speed and Efficiency: Trains will now operate at speeds of up to 75 kmph, compared to the earlier speed limit of just 10 kmph, ensuring faster and more efficient rail connectivity.</li>
<li class="li1">Robust Construction: Built at a cost of Rs 535 crore by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the bridge incorporates stainless steel reinforcements and a special polysiloxane coating to withstand the harsh marine environment.</li>
</ul>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kunal-kamra-asks-bookmyshow-to-clarify-rahool-kanal-claims-8929536">Kunal Kamra asks BookMyShow to clarify Rahool Kanal claims</a>
<h2 class="p2">Significance of the Inauguration</h2>
The inauguration of the new Pamban Rail Bridge marks a pivotal moment in India&rsquo;s infrastructure journey, symbolising a harmonious blend of historical reverence and modern engineering. It is expected to enhance regional connectivity, boost local economies, and facilitate smoother pilgrimages to the sacred town of Rameswaram.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the bridge's importance and said, &ldquo;Pamban Bridge is one of the most significant bridges in railway history.&rdquo;
As the nation celebrates Ram Navami, the unveiling of this state-of-the-art bridge stands as a testament to India&rsquo;s commitment to progress while honouring its rich cultural heritage.

The original Pamban Bridge, constructed in 1914, was a pioneering engineering feat of its time, connecting Rameswaram Island to mainland India. Over the decades, the bridge faced challenges due to aging infrastructure and increasing transportation demands, eventually leading to its closure in 2022

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate India’s first vertical lift sea bridge, the new Pamban Rail Bridge in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on April 6, 2025. This innaugration event coincides with the auspicious festival of Ram Navami, celebrated across the country to honour the birth of Lord Rama. The original Pamban Bridge, constructed in 1914, was a pioneering engineering feat of its time, connecting Rameswaram Island to mainland India. Over the decades, the bridge faced challenges due to aging infrastructure and increasing transportation demands, eventually leading to its closure in 2022. Also read: 'Vanguard': NASA wants to bring back this 67-year-old satellite to Earth Key Features of the new Pamban Rail Bridge Vertical Lift Mechanism: The bridge features a 72-meter electro-mechanical vertical lift span that can be raised in approximately five minutes, allowing maritime traffic to pass underneath. Enhanced Clearance: With a clearance of 22 meters above sea level — a significant upgrade from the old bridge's 1.5 meters — the new structure can accommodate larger vessels. Improved Speed and Efficiency: Trains will now operate at speeds of up to 75 kmph, compared to the earlier speed limit of just 10 kmph, ensuring faster and more efficient rail connectivity. Robust Construction: Built at a cost of Rs 535 crore by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the bridge incorporates stainless steel reinforcements and a special polysiloxane coating to withstand the harsh marine environment. Also read: Kunal Kamra asks BookMyShow to clarify Rahool Kanal claims Significance of the Inauguration The inauguration of the new Pamban Rail Bridge marks a pivotal moment in India’s infrastructure journey, symbolising a harmonious blend of historical reverence and modern engineering. It is expected to enhance regional connectivity, boost local economies, and facilitate smoother pilgrimages to the sacred town of Rameswaram. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the bridge's importance and said, “Pamban Bridge is one of the most significant bridges in railway history.” As the nation celebrates Ram Navami, the unveiling of this state-of-the-art bridge stands as a testament to India’s commitment to progress while honouring its rich cultural heritage.

'22 meters above sea level': PM Modi to inaugurate first vertical lift sea bridge on Ram Navami

PM Modi Sri Lanka visit: PM Modi, President Dissanayake hold delegation talks in Colombo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Colombo on Saturday that India will assist in the renovation of the highly revered Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee. The PM also promised support in the construction of the sacred city in the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex and the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya.
In his address, PM Modi said, &ldquo;There are centuries-old spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. I am extremely happy to announce that the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha found in 1960, in the Aravali region of my home state Gujarat, are being sent to Sri Lanka for an exposition.&rdquo;
&ldquo;India will assist in the renovation of the Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee. India will also provide support in the construction of the sacred city in the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex, and the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya,&rdquo; he added.
The Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, is regarded as the greatest building of its age for its architecture and elaborate sculptural bas-relief. Its multiple gold-plated gopuram towers were expanded in the medieval period. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sri-lanka-ink-key-defence-pact-after-pm-modis-meeting-with-president-dissanayaka-8928462" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India, Sri Lanka ink key defence pact after PM Modi's meeting with President Dissanayaka</a>
Earlier, PM Modi was awarded &lsquo;Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana&rsquo; by President Anura Disanayake.
&ldquo;It is a matter of great pride for me to be awarded the &lsquo;Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana&rsquo; by President Disanayaka today. This award does not only honour me, but also honours 140 crore Indians. It is a tribute to the historic ties and deep friendship between the people of India and Sri Lanka,&rdquo; Modi said. &ldquo;I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the President, the Sri Lankan Government and to the people of Sri Lanka, for this honour.&rdquo;
<h2>India inks trilateral pact with UAE, Sri Lanka to turn Trincomalee as energy hub</h2>
India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop Trincomalee, located on Sri Lanka&rsquo;s northeastern coast, as a regional energy hub.
The MoU was exchanged in Colombo in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Dissanayake.
The agreement was formally signed by the Energy Secretary of Sri Lanka, the Indian Foreign Secretary, and the UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, representing the UAE government.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-holds-special-place-in-indias-neighbourhood-policy-says-pm-modi-8929065">'Sri Lanka holds special place in India's neighbourhood policy,' says PM Modi</a>
India and Sri Lanka will also begin work on a joint venture solar power plant in Sampur. PM Modi and President Dissanayake virtually performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the project. Trincomalee Harbour, located in Trincomalee Bay, is one of the largest natural deep-water harbours in the world and is considered a geo-strategic asset. It is the closest Sri Lankan port to Chennai, and plays a crucial role in India&rsquo;s Indo-Pacific strategy and is viewed as a counterbalance to the Chinese presence at the Hambantota Port. Trincomalee can accommodate warships, aircraft carriers, and large merchant vessels. Trincomalee has long been a strategic interest for major powers. During World War II, the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked Trincomalee in 1942, sinking three British warships anchored there.
<h2>PM accorded grand welcome at historic Independence Square</h2>
Earlier, PM Narendra Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the historic Independence Square in the heart of the Sri Lankan capital, in perhaps the first such honour given to a foreign leader. The PM was received at the Square by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Officials said it was the first time a foreign leader was accorded such a welcome at the Independence Square.
The prime minister&rsquo;s visit to Sri Lanka comes at a time when the island nation is showing signs of recovery from economic stress. The country was reeling under a massive economic crisis three years back and India extended financial assistance worth USD 4.5 billion.
PM Modi is also scheduled to lay a wreath at the IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) memorial later in the day.

World | India News: India will assist in the renovation of the Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee and also provide support in the construction of sacred city in the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex, and the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Colombo on Saturday that India will assist in the renovation of the highly revered Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee. The PM also promised support in the construction of the sacred city in the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex and the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya. In his address, PM Modi said, “There are centuries-old spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka. I am extremely happy to announce that the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha found in 1960, in the Aravali region of my home state Gujarat, are being sent to Sri Lanka for an exposition.” “India will assist in the renovation of the Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee. India will also provide support in the construction of the sacred city in the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex, and the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya,” he added. The Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, is regarded as the greatest building of its age for its architecture and elaborate sculptural bas-relief. Its multiple gold-plated gopuram towers were expanded in the medieval period. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also Read | India, Sri Lanka ink key defence pact after PM Modi's meeting with President Dissanayaka Earlier, PM Modi was awarded ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ by President Anura Disanayake. “It is a matter of great pride for me to be awarded the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ by President Disanayaka today. This award does not only honour me, but also honours 140 crore Indians. It is a tribute to the historic ties and deep friendship between the people of India and Sri Lanka,” Modi said. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the President, the Sri Lankan Government and to the people of Sri Lanka, for this honour.” India inks trilateral pact with UAE, Sri Lanka to turn Trincomalee as energy hub India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop Trincomalee, located on Sri Lanka’s northeastern coast, as a regional energy hub. The MoU was exchanged in Colombo in the presence of PM Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Dissanayake. The agreement was formally signed by the Energy Secretary of Sri Lanka, the Indian Foreign Secretary, and the UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, representing the UAE government. Also Read | 'Sri Lanka holds special place in India's neighbourhood policy,' says PM Modi India and Sri Lanka will also begin work on a joint venture solar power plant in Sampur. PM Modi and President Dissanayake virtually performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the project. Trincomalee Harbour, located in Trincomalee Bay, is one of the largest natural deep-water harbours in the world and is considered a geo-strategic asset. It is the closest Sri Lankan port to Chennai, and plays a crucial role in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy and is viewed as a counterbalance to the Chinese presence at the Hambantota Port. Trincomalee can accommodate warships, aircraft carriers, and large merchant vessels. Trincomalee has long been a strategic interest for major powers. During World War II, the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked Trincomalee in 1942, sinking three British warships anchored there. PM accorded grand welcome at historic Independence Square Earlier, PM Narendra Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the historic Independence Square in the heart of the Sri Lankan capital, in perhaps the first such honour given to a foreign leader. The PM was received at the Square by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Officials said it was the first time a foreign leader was accorded such a welcome at the Independence Square. The prime minister’s visit to Sri Lanka comes at a time when the island nation is showing signs of recovery from economic stress. The country was reeling under a massive economic crisis three years back and India extended financial assistance worth USD 4.5 billion. PM Modi is also scheduled to lay a wreath at the IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) memorial later in the day.

India to help renovate Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, arrives in Sri Lanka for a crucial two-day state visit, will become the first global leader to be hosted by President Dissanayake. The visit is expected to focus on boosting energy cooperation, signing defence agreements, and addressing the sensitive fisheries issue. India and Sri Lanka are also set to sign 8 MoUs, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations.

PM Modi In Sri Lanka: PM urges immediate release of fishermen, receives grand welcome

PM Modi Sri Lanka visit: PM to hold delegation-level talks with President Dissanayake

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an unscheduled meeting with Bangladesh’s interim leader Mohammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit. This marks their first interaction since Yunus took office. Key issues such as minority rights, border tensions, and Yunus’ growing tilt towards China were raised. The meeting reflects India's concern over shifting dynamics in the region and its strategic interests.

India-Bangladesh ties: PM Modi meets Bangladesh Chief Adviser Yunus amid rising tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, set to arrive in Sri Lanka for a crucial two-day state visit, will become the first global leader to be hosted by President Dissanayake. The visit is expected to focus on boosting energy cooperation, signing defence agreements, and addressing the sensitive fisheries issue. India and Sri Lanka are also set to sign 8 MoUs, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations.

India-Sri Lanka ties: Indian Prime Minister on 2-day state visit to Sri Lanka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus at the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. This is the first engagement between the two leaders after Yunus took over as the interim head of the neighbouring country post former PM Shiekh Hasina's ouster.

Indian PM holds talks with Bangladesh chief adviser in Thailand

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand today.

Indian PM Modi to hold talks with Bangladesh chief adviser in Thailand

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Thailand on Thursday. He will take part in the sixth BIMTECH Summit that will take place today. Ahead of the BIMTECH Summit, Prime Minister Modi also held talks with his Thai counterpart, Shinawatra, in Bangkok.

PM Modi watches Thai version of Ramayana in Thailand

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to Thailand, his third trip to the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. During his visit, he will attend the sixth BIMEX summit on the 4th of April, and from there he will then travel to Sri Lanka until the 6th of April. Watch in for more details!

Indian PM Narendra Modi arrives in Bangkok to attend 6th BIMSTEC summit

Indian PM Narendra Modi visits Thailand to strengthen ties

Indian PM to visit Thailand & Sri Lanka to strengthen ties

Whatever US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump</a> may think about India, he&rsquo;s got one thing right, it is the &ldquo;tariff king.&rdquo; India&rsquo;s tariff rates are among the highest in the world, and Trump has called the South-Asian nation out on multiple occasions.
&ldquo;India charges us 100 per cent tariffs; the system is not fair to the US, it never was,&rdquo; Trump said in an address to the Joint Session of the US Congress.
His administration&rsquo;s latest trade report backs him up. The Office of the United States Trade Representative listed India&rsquo;s high tariffs, including a 50 per cent duty on apples (compared to the US, which has no tariffs on apples). India also levies 50 per cent tariffs on corn and motorcycles and 100 per cent tariffs on coffee, raisins, and walnuts.
So, on April 2, Trump hit back with a 26 per cent reciprocal tariff on India. But forget why India has such high tariffs (that&rsquo;s another article in itself); the real question is: how much is this going to cost Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-tariff-announcement-liberation-day-reciprocal-tariffs-india-china-japan-8919156" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;kind reciprocal&rsquo; tariffs explained: See how much India, China, Japan, and others will pay. FULL LIST</a>
<h2>A blow to Atmanirbhar Bharat</h2>
Trump&rsquo;s tariffs will be a direct blow to Modi&rsquo;s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, or &ldquo;self-reliant India&rdquo; campaign, which has been a core policy since 2020.
Since taking office in 2014, Modi has gradually hiked tariffs to push domestic manufacturing. His government has also rolled out production-linked incentives (PLIs) to attract foreign manufacturers to India by offering them rewards for increasing local production.
The official reason for India&rsquo;s high tariffs? Protecting local industries. These same industries, backed by big businessmen who benefit from these tariffs,&nbsp;are a major source of support (and funding) for the Indian government. 
<h2>Indian agriculture to a big hit</h2>
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick asked, &ldquo;Why won&rsquo;t India buy even a single bushel of American corn?&rdquo;
Lutnick wanted India to open up its agricultural sector, accusing India of blocking US farmers. But, while India could minimise tariffs on industrial goods, agriculture is a whole different topic.
Every time the government tries to sign a deal to allow dairy imports, it gets shut down because of the argument that it would drive millions of small farmers into ruin.&nbsp;
The same logic applies to other agricultural products. If India lets in cheap American imports, its farmers will take the brunt, and that&rsquo;s politically not good for Modi, who has already had to backtrack on farm laws after mass protests.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-avoid-trumps-reciprocal-tariffs-trump-himself-has-a-simple-solution-for-world-leaders-8919111" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Want to avoid Trump&rsquo;s reciprocal tariffs? Trump himself has a &lsquo;simple&rsquo; solution for world leaders</a>
<h2>So, what can Modi do? </h2>
The Indian government tried to soften Trump&rsquo;s stance ahead of PM Modi's Washington visit in February by lowering India&rsquo;s highest tariffs (100-150 per cent) on some items, including bourbon whisky. 
Motorcycle import taxes also dropped from 50 per cent to 30 per cent, bringing India&rsquo;s average tariff rate down from 11.5 per cent to 10.6 per cent. This did help a bit: both sides agreed to finalise the first phase of a trade deal by autumn and boost trade to $500 billion by 2030 (from $210 billion in 2024). 
India also promised to buy more American oil, gas, and arms to reduce its trade surplus with the US. These moves keep talks alive and buy time.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal even flew to Washington to offer further tariff cuts covering 55 per cent of US exports. India also scrapped a 6 per cent tax on digital ads (a win for American tech giants), and Jio and Bharti Airtel struck deals to bring Elon Musk&rsquo;s Starlink satellite internet service to India.
But was that enough for Trump? No. India still landed on his latest tariff retaliation list.
<h2>Can Modi meet Trump&rsquo;s demands?</h2>
If PM Modi backs down too much, he could anger some of his strongest support groups&mdash;farmers and big business. Farmers are already cautious of Modi&rsquo;s policies, and businesses, who have long been protected from foreign competition for far too long, won&rsquo;t exactly be beaming with joy if tariffs drop too low.
Aside from that, Trump&rsquo;s tariffs could also hurt Indian exports. Goldman Sachs estimates that Trump's tariffs could cause a 0.6 per cent drop in India&rsquo;s GDP growth.
That might not seem like a lot right now, but a prolonged trade war could put a serious dent in PM Modi&rsquo;s vision for 'Amrit Kaal.'
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-26-discounted-tariffs-on-india-says-pm-modi-is-a-friend-but-he-hasnt-been-treating-us-right-8919110" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump announces 26% 'discounted' tariffs on India, says 'PM Modi is a friend, but he hasn't been treating us right'</a>
<div class="post-content">
(Disclaimer: The&nbsp;views of&nbsp;the&nbsp;writer&nbsp;do not represent&nbsp;the views&nbsp;of WION or ZMCL.&nbsp;Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)
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On April 2, Trump imposed a 26 per cent reciprocal tariff on India. Now the real question is: how much is this going to cost Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Opinions & Blogs | World

Whatever US President Donald Trump may think about India, he’s got one thing right, it is the “tariff king.” India’s tariff rates are among the highest in the world, and Trump has called the South-Asian nation out on multiple occasions. “India charges us 100 per cent tariffs; the system is not fair to the US, it never was,” Trump said in an address to the Joint Session of the US Congress. His administration’s latest trade report backs him up. The Office of the United States Trade Representative listed India’s high tariffs, including a 50 per cent duty on apples (compared to the US, which has no tariffs on apples). India also levies 50 per cent tariffs on corn and motorcycles and 100 per cent tariffs on coffee, raisins, and walnuts. So, on April 2, Trump hit back with a 26 per cent reciprocal tariff on India. But forget why India has such high tariffs (that’s another article in itself); the real question is: how much is this going to cost Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Also read: Trump’s ‘kind reciprocal’ tariffs explained: See how much India, China, Japan, and others will pay. FULL LIST A blow to Atmanirbhar Bharat Trump’s tariffs will be a direct blow to Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, or “self-reliant India” campaign, which has been a core policy since 2020. Since taking office in 2014, Modi has gradually hiked tariffs to push domestic manufacturing. His government has also rolled out production-linked incentives (PLIs) to attract foreign manufacturers to India by offering them rewards for increasing local production. The official reason for India’s high tariffs? Protecting local industries. These same industries, backed by big businessmen who benefit from these tariffs, are a major source of support (and funding) for the Indian government. Indian agriculture to a big hit US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick asked, “Why won’t India buy even a single bushel of American corn?” Lutnick wanted India to open up its agricultural sector, accusing India of blocking US farmers. But, while India could minimise tariffs on industrial goods, agriculture is a whole different topic. Every time the government tries to sign a deal to allow dairy imports, it gets shut down because of the argument that it would drive millions of small farmers into ruin. The same logic applies to other agricultural products. If India lets in cheap American imports, its farmers will take the brunt, and that’s politically not good for Modi, who has already had to backtrack on farm laws after mass protests. Also read: Want to avoid Trump’s reciprocal tariffs? Trump himself has a ‘simple’ solution for world leaders So, what can Modi do? The Indian government tried to soften Trump’s stance ahead of PM Modi's Washington visit in February by lowering India’s highest tariffs (100-150 per cent) on some items, including bourbon whisky. Motorcycle import taxes also dropped from 50 per cent to 30 per cent, bringing India’s average tariff rate down from 11.5 per cent to 10.6 per cent. This did help a bit: both sides agreed to finalise the first phase of a trade deal by autumn and boost trade to $500 billion by 2030 (from $210 billion in 2024). India also promised to buy more American oil, gas, and arms to reduce its trade surplus with the US. These moves keep talks alive and buy time. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal even flew to Washington to offer further tariff cuts covering 55 per cent of US exports. India also scrapped a 6 per cent tax on digital ads (a win for American tech giants), and Jio and Bharti Airtel struck deals to bring Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to India. But was that enough for Trump? No. India still landed on his latest tariff retaliation list. Can Modi meet Trump’s demands? If PM Modi backs down too much, he could anger some of his strongest support groups—farmers and big business. Farmers are already cautious of Modi’s policies, and businesses, who have long been protected from foreign competition for far too long, won’t exactly be beaming with joy if tariffs drop too low. Aside from that, Trump’s tariffs could also hurt Indian exports. Goldman Sachs estimates that Trump's tariffs could cause a 0.6 per cent drop in India’s GDP growth. That might not seem like a lot right now, but a prolonged trade war could put a serious dent in PM Modi’s vision for 'Amrit Kaal.' Also read: Trump announces 26% 'discounted' tariffs on India, says 'PM Modi is a friend, but he hasn't been treating us right' (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Trump’s reciprocal tariffs hit ‘tariff king’ India: Could they cost PM Modi his next term?

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