Amitabh Kant Urges India to Stand Firm Against US Tariffs

Former CEO of NITI Aayog, Amitabh Kant, has urged India to maintain its stance in the face of a significant trade challenge posed by the United States. Following the announcement of a 50 percent tariff on Indian imports, Kant emphasized the necessity for India to protect its energy needs, national security, and strategic autonomy. Speaking to ANI on August 14, 2025, he articulated the importance of a long-term vision for India’s economic resilience.

Kant stated, “India should not compromise on its energy, security, or its strategic autonomy. We are here for a long-term game and we must win the long-term war.” His comments highlight the critical nature of India’s relationship with the US, which he described as having developed over two and a half decades across bipartisan lines.

Tariff Implications and India’s Economic Strategy

Kant criticized the tariff move as lacking logic, especially given that India’s oil imports from Russia are significantly lower than those of other nations. He explained, “We built up a relationship with the United States… this attempt to put a 50 percent duty does not stand to logic because we import oil that is more than twice that which China and Turkey import from Russia. If we do not import from Russia, then we are putting our citizens to great economic hardship.”

Calling the tariff a test of India’s resilience, Kant suggested that it should inspire bold economic reforms. He remarked, “India is being tested, and it should galvanise us in a very big way. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to carry out very vigorous reforms across the economy.”

Kant proposed several measures to bolster India’s long-term position, including simplifying the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and personal tax systems. He also advocated for the reduction of the statutory liquidity ratio to facilitate increased credit flow into the economy, as well as the development of cities that can serve as growth centers. Additionally, he emphasized the need to transform India into a more innovative and research-oriented nation.

Tourism as a Key Growth Driver

Highlighting the potential of the tourism sector, Kant noted, “Tourism is a massive opportunity for both growth and job creation, and we should use tourism to penetrate all global markets right now.” He expressed confidence that the impact of the US tariffs on the Indian economy would be minimal, stating that it would have only a “very, very minor marginal impact.”

Kant’s insights reflect a broader strategy for India as it navigates complex international trade dynamics while aiming to enhance its economic growth and resilience. As the country faces these challenges, the call for reform and innovation remains crucial in shaping its future.