Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has underlined India’s approach to foreign policy and defence strategy by declaring that in international relations there are “no permanent friends or permanent enemies, only permanent interests.” Speaking at the NDTV Defence Summit 2025, Singh warned that the global environment resembles a “war-like situation” in trade, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on Indian exports.
Key Takeaways from Singh’s Address
- Strategic Autonomy Over Alliances: Singh noted that India does not brand any nation as a foe, but national priorities and people’s welfare remain non-negotiable.
- Push for Aatmanirbharta (Self-Reliance): He reiterated that self-reliance in defence production is the backbone of India’s security and strategic independence.
- Made-in-India Warships & Defence Systems: Highlighting indigenous capabilities, Singh cited the progress of the Nilgiri-class stealth frigates (INS Himgiri and INS Udaygiri) and announced work on the Sudarshan Chakra missile defence system.
- Soaring Defence Exports: India’s defence exports have risen dramatically, from less than ₹700 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹24,000 crore in 2025, signaling a shift from import-dependence to export competitiveness.
U.S. Tariffs and Global Fallout
Trump’s sudden move to raise tariffs on Indian goods has created ripples across global markets. Key industries — textiles, jewelry, seafood, and machinery — face serious disruptions. The Indian rupee has fallen sharply, while stock markets witnessed heavy losses.
Washington justified the move as a reaction to India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, but New Delhi has defended its stance, citing energy security and sovereign decision-making. Reports of India halting U.S. defence procurements following the tariffs were denied by government officials, who insisted that strategic defence cooperation remains unaffected.
“There are no permanent friends or enemies, only permanent interests,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, describing the global trade environment as “war-like,” while unveiling India’s new indigenous defence projects and reaffirming self-reliance amid the U.S. tariff dispute.
The Bigger Picture
Rajnath Singh’s statement captures a turning point in India’s foreign and defence policy. With the U.S.–India trade rift deepening and global alliances shifting rapidly, India is positioning itself as a self-reliant yet diplomatically flexible power — ready to cooperate where interests align, but equally prepared to stand firm when they don’t.
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