NextFin news, Nagpur, Maharashtra — On Friday, September 12, 2025, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the issue of tariffs imposed on India by global powers, attributing them to fear of India's growing economic and geopolitical strength.
Speaking at the 7th Foundation Day of Bramhakumaris Vishwa Shanti Sarovar in Nagpur, Bhagwat said, "People fear what would happen to them if someone else grows bigger. Where will they be if India grows? So, they imposed a tariff," without naming any specific country.
He explained that the imposition of tariffs was not due to any fault of India but was a reaction to concerns about India's expanding position on the global stage. "We did not do anything; they are appeasing the one who did it all, because if it is with them, then they can put a little pressure on India," Bhagwat added.
The RSS chief described such tariff measures as the result of a self-centered mindset, stating, "All of this happens in the play of 'Me and Mine'. When they understand that 'Me and Mine' is actually 'We and Ours', all issues end. Today, the world needs a solution."
These remarks come amid the United States' imposition of a 25 percent tariff on Indian imports, supplemented by an additional 25 percent tariff related to India's purchase of Russian crude oil. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has termed the US move "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable," and declared that New Delhi will take "all actions necessary to protect its national interests."
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social, that the US and India would resume negotiations to address trade barriers between the two countries. Trump expressed optimism about reaching a successful conclusion, stating, "I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries!"
The statements by Mohan Bhagwat highlight the ongoing tensions in US-India trade relations and reflect broader concerns about India's rising global influence.
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