Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed a firm message to former US President Donald Trump, making it clear that India will not compromise on protecting the interests of its farmers in any trade or policy discussions.
According to sources familiar with the exchange, Modi’s remarks came during a recent interaction in which Trump raised agricultural market access and trade issues. The Prime Minister reportedly told the former US leader that farmers form “the backbone of India’s economy” and that safeguarding their livelihoods was a non-negotiable priority for his government.
“On matters concerning farmers, I stand like a wall,” Modi is said to have told Trump, underscoring that India’s agricultural sector cannot be subjected to terms that would disadvantage rural communities or weaken domestic food security.
While details of the broader conversation have not been officially released, it is understood that the two also discussed global trade trends, food supply chains, and the importance of balancing open markets with the protection of vulnerable sectors.
The comments align with Modi’s longstanding stance in international negotiations, including at the World Trade Organization, where India has consistently resisted pressure to dismantle agricultural subsidies or open its markets without safeguards.
Analysts say the message to Trump, a prominent figure in US politics even after leaving office, was likely aimed at reinforcing India’s position ahead of potential trade talks with Washington under future administrations.
Agriculture remains a politically sensitive issue in India, where more than 40% of the population depends directly on farming for their livelihood. Modi’s government has faced both praise and criticism for its policies toward the sector, including the controversial farm laws of 2020 that were later repealed after mass protests.
By taking a public and uncompromising stance, the Prime Minister appears to be signalling to both domestic and international audiences that rural interests will remain central to his economic and diplomatic strategies.
