Why India Waited Before Reacting To Trump’s 50% Tariff Move? Rajnath Singh Explains

Last Updated:September 22, 2025, 20:52 IST

The US had earlier imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian exports, including a 25 per cent penalty over India’s continued purchase of Russian oil

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (ANI Image)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday explained why India did not react immediately to the 50 per cent tariff imposed by the US, describing the nation as “broad-minded and big-hearted.”

The US had earlier imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian exports, including a 25 per cent penalty over India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.

“We did not respond right away. Those who are broad-minded and big-hearted do not react immediately,” Singh said while addressing the Indian community in Morocco, where he is on a two-day official visit.

Rajnath Singh On PoK

During the interaction, Singh also spoke about Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), expressing confidence that India would regain control over the territory without the need for aggressive action.

“PoK will come under our control naturally. There are already voices within the region demanding freedom from the current administration,” he said.

Singh recalled making similar remarks five years ago while addressing an Indian Army program in Jammu and Kashmir.

“I had said then that we would not need to attack or capture PoK; it will itself proclaim, ‘Main bhi Bharat Hoon.’ That day will come,” he added.

The minister’s comments come amid opposition criticism of the government following Operation Sindoor on May 7, during which multiple Pakistani jets were downed.

Opposition leaders alleged that India missed an opportunity to capture PoK, claiming that a ceasefire was agreed to despite India having the upper hand.

Read More

Go to Source