Nitin Gadkari’s ‘dadagiri’ dig comes amid US tariff pressure on India

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said countries that bully others on the global stage do so because of their economic strength and technological advantage. Speaking at the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) in Nagpur, he urged India to boost exports, reduce imports, and focus on science and technology to become self-reliant. He added, “Those who are indulging in ‘dadagiri’ are doing so because they are economically strong and have better technology. If we improve ourselves, we won’t need to bully anyone, as our culture values the welfare of the world.”

Gadkari’s comments come amid rising trade tensions with the United States, which recently imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods—bringing the total to 50%. This makes India one of the most heavily taxed US trading partners, affecting industries like textiles, gems, pharmaceuticals, and auto parts. The US has linked these tariffs to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which India defends as necessary for its energy needs. The move has caused the sharpest diplomatic rift between the two nations in decades, with the US suspending trade talks and warning of further sanctions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded strongly, saying India will never compromise on the welfare of farmers, fishermen, and dairy workers, even if it means paying a heavy price. “For us, the interest of our farmers is the top priority,” Modi said at a recent event.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also criticized the US, suggesting some countries are uncomfortable with India’s rapid growth. Calling the US “sabka boss,” Singh said, “Many are trying to make Indian products more expensive so the world stops buying them. But no power can stop India from becoming a major global power.”

India has condemned the tariffs as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable” and vowed to take all necessary steps to protect its interests.