THE TIME PRESS: New Delhi, February 3, 2026
Just yesterday, US President Donald Trump dropped a bombshell on social media after a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He announced a fresh trade deal between the world’s two biggest democracies. The big news? America is cutting its tariffs on Indian goods down to 18% right away, a sharp drop from the heavy 50% duties that had been hurting our exporters for months.
Trump called it a “wonderful” deal, saying Modi agreed to stop buying oil from Russia altogether. In return, India would buy more energy from the US – and even possibly from Venezuela. He linked it to helping end the war in Ukraine, claiming cheaper Russian oil was keeping the conflict going.
Modi quickly responded on X, thanking Trump warmly. “Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18%,” he wrote, adding gratitude on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. Indian stocks jumped too – companies like Infosys and Wipro saw nice gains as markets cheered easier access to the American market.
This looks like a win for Indian businesses at first glance. Lower tariffs mean our textiles, pharma, IT services, and farm products can compete better in the US. Thousands of jobs could be saved or created. After months of tough talks and those punishing duties, exporters are breathing easier today.
But hold on – is this really such a clear victory for ordinary people?
Let’s be honest. Russian oil has been a lifeline for India. It came at deep discounts, helping keep fuel prices from going completely wild amid global chaos. We were buying over a million barrels a day at one point, saving billions that could go into roads, schools, and hospitals. If we truly stop that flow, where does the replacement come from? American oil? Venezuelan? Both are likely to cost more.
So here’s the big question we’re asking today: Who pays the extra bill when petrol and diesel prices rise at the pump? Truck drivers? Farmers? Daily commuters already struggling with inflation? Families budgeting every rupee for cooking gas?
The government owes us clear answers. Has India actually committed to completely stopping Russian oil imports, or is this Trump speaking for both sides? Modi’s statement stayed silent on the oil part – why? We need transparency. Commerce Ministry, External Affairs Ministry – tell the people straight: What exact timeline? What volume commitments? And most importantly, how will you shield common citizens from higher energy costs?
This deal smells a bit like strong-arm tactics. The US slapped those extra penalties last year precisely to force India away from Russia. Now the stick turns into a carrot. Fair enough in hard-nosed trade talks, but should foreign policy decisions – who we buy oil from – be dictated by tariff threats? India has always stood for strategic autonomy. Is this a step away from that proud principle?
We’re not against stronger ties with America. More trade, more jobs – great. But not at the cost of energy security or higher living expenses for millions. Authorities must spell out safeguards: long-term price caps from US suppliers? Diversifying to other affordable sources? Subsidies if prices spike?
The people deserve to know if this deal truly puts India first – or just bows to pressure. Watch this space.
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