Congress Slams Modi Over New US Tariffs on India

New Delhi, Aug 27 (PTI) — Following the implementation of additional US tariffs on India, the Congress party has criticized the government, suggesting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's earlier touted formula of "MAGA+MIGA=MEGA" has turned into a significant issue for the nation.

Congress General Secretary in charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, highlighted that the "Trump double tariff" is now in effect, likely impacting India’s labor-intensive exports like textiles, gems and jewellery, leather, marine products, and engineering negatively.

Ramesh noted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the US commerce secretary has voiced concerns over the H1B visa system, which primarily benefits Indian IT professionals. This move aligns with demands from President Donald Trump's MAGA base, the same acronym Prime Minister Modi incorporated into his "MAGA+ MIGA= MEGA" formula in February, which has now become a "MAHA headache," Ramesh remarked.

In February, Modi introduced the term 'Make India Great Again' (MIGA), drawing inspiration from Trump’s 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA), proposing that the combination creates a "MEGA partnership for prosperity" aimed at enhancing the bilateral relationship between India and the US. Modi’s comments came during his visit to Washington, where he held extensive discussions with President Trump to explore new avenues to strengthen bilateral partnerships.

The latest 25 per cent tariff imposed by Trump, related to India’s purchases of Russian oil, started on Wednesday, raising the total levies on New Delhi's exports to 50 per cent.

The US Department of Homeland Security stated in a draft order that these increased tariffs will apply to Indian products entered for consumption, or removed from warehouse for consumption, from 12:01 a.m. EDT on August 27, 2025.

Earlier, on August 7, President Trump announced reciprocal 25 per cent tariffs on India, coinciding with similar tariffs on about 70 other countries. Although the tariffs on Indian products doubled to 50 per cent for India’s Russian oil purchases, Trump offered a 21-day window for negotiations.

On Monday, Prime Minister Modi emphasized his uncompromising stance regarding the interests of farmers, cattle-rearers, and small-scale industries, acknowledging the potential pressure but affirming India's resilience.