India Must Not Surrender Its Dignity in the Name of US Trade Deals
There’s a growing narrative in elite Indian circles that being closer to the United States — especially under its current leadership — is not just beneficial, but essential. Many of these voices argue that this relationship is yielding great results and that India should seize the moment, sign the trade deals, and not fall behind other nations rushing to partner with America.
But let’s pause and take a deeper look. This moment in global politics isn’t just about trade. What we are witnessing is a new kind of imperialism — one that uses economic power, threats, and manipulation to get its way.
A Reset — But for Whom?
Yes, the world is shifting. Capitalism is being “reset.” But let’s not confuse this reset with something progressive. This isn't about creating a fairer, more inclusive economic system. Instead, what we’re seeing from the US is a return to one-sided power plays — imposing tariffs on others while demanding open access to their markets, pressuring countries to change domestic policies, and weaponizing trade to serve its own interests.
America wants to dictate terms, not negotiate them. It holds on to its own subsidies, protects its industries fiercely, and expects others, like India, to give up protections for their farmers and small businesses. It picks and chooses who to favor, not based on fairness, but on strategic convenience. It wants loyalty, not partnership.
More Than Trade — It’s Control
Let’s imagine what this looks like in real terms: a country that demands everyone else lower tariffs while keeping its own. A country that punishes others for upholding democratic laws if those laws don’t align with its political goals. A country that doesn't just want trade, but obedience — dictating how technology is regulated, how content is moderated, and how other sovereign nations should behave internally.
And let’s not forget climate change. At a time when the world desperately needs leadership to tackle the environmental crisis, this so-called “leader of the free world” is sprinting in the opposite direction — doubling down on fossil fuels, deregulating polluting industries, and encouraging wasteful speculation like cryptocurrency.
This is not global leadership. This is coercion dressed up as capitalism.
The Symbolic Humiliation of Nations
We’re entering an age where global power is being exercised not just through economics or diplomacy — but through public humiliation. Leaders from around the world are made to grovel for favors, concessions, or deals. Any country that tries to assert its independence or follow its own rules is quickly reminded of who’s really in charge — through sanctions, trade punishments, or military threats.
India must not be one of those nations.
India Needs Reforms — But Not at the Cost of Sovereignty
Let’s be clear: India does need economic reform. We do need to build stronger industries, integrate with global supply chains, and adopt smart trade strategies. But this cannot come at the cost of our dignity or independence.
We don’t need to bend over backwards for a superpower that shows no regard for international norms, that tramples on its own allies, and that treats diplomacy like a mafia deal — all give, no take.
Real Partnership Is Built on Shared Values
At its best, the India-US relationship should be based on shared values: democracy, openness, constitutional rights, and respect for each nation’s sovereignty. But right now, that vision is far from reality.
What the US is offering isn’t partnership — it’s dominance. And if India gives in to this model under the illusion of progress or pragmatism, it won’t just lose a trade battle. It will lose its standing as a proud, independent global player.
India must engage with the world — but not kneel to it.
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