Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirtivardhan Singh declared India’s economy robust and unaffected by global trade tensions, including recent U.S. tariffs, during a National Sports Day event in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday. Speaking at the inauguration of sports competitions, Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for fortifying India’s economic position, enabling it to navigate challenges like the 25% additional tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Indian goods, effective August 27, 2025, due to India’s purchase of Russian oil.

Singh emphasized India’s favorable trade balance with the U.S., noting that exports consistently outpace imports, mitigating the impact of the tariffs, which now total 50% following an earlier 25% levy on August 7. “Governments and their policies keep changing, but today India is in a very strong position,” he stated, highlighting the nation’s growing global influence, with many countries, particularly in the Global South, viewing India as a leader.

Singh also praised Modi’s diplomatic efforts, spotlighting the strengthened India-Japan partnership, marked by Japan’s pledge of 10 trillion yen (approximately ₹60,000 crore) in investments over the next decade and 13 new agreements, including defense and economic security frameworks to enhance supply chain resilience in sectors like semiconductors and clean energy.

Criticizing the opposition, Singh accused Congress of undermining India’s global image through narrow political motives, particularly in response to their comments on Modi’s participation in the recent India-Japan summit. “Their politics is limited to sitting on the Prime Minister’s chair,” he remarked, lamenting disruptions in Parliament.

The minister underscored that India’s economic stability and strategic alliances, forged through years of diligent diplomacy, position the country to capitalize on global opportunities, ensuring sustained growth despite international uncertainties.

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