Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday linked national progress to the power of self-belief, saying confidence among citizens is the driving force behind turning India into a developed nation. His statement came at a crucial political moment, just a day after India and the United States announced a major trade understanding that includes a reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods from 25 per cent to 18 per cent.
In a message posted in Hindi on X, the Prime Minister said self-confidence is the energy that makes even the toughest goals achievable. He added that the collective confidence of Indians will be the foundation on which the vision of Viksit Bharat will stand.
Reinforcing the idea, Modi also shared a Sanskrit verse highlighting that prosperity is built through ethical actions, courage and skill, and that discipline helps convert wealth into national growth. The message was seen by supporters as a reflection of India’s growing global standing and economic ambition.
However, the political opposition was far from convinced.
The Congress party demanded full transparency on the India–US trade arrangement, raising serious concerns about what it described as unclear and potentially risky commitments. The party questioned why key announcements related to India’s trade policy were being made by US President Donald Trump rather than through official Indian channels.
In a sharp statement on X, Congress said the manner in which the deal was revealed echoed past instances where international developments involving India were first announced from abroad. The party also highlighted Trump’s claim that the agreement was finalised at Modi’s request.
Congress flagged multiple issues, including Trump’s assertion that India may reduce both tariff and non-tariff barriers for American goods to zero. According to the party, such a move could expose Indian manufacturers, small traders and domestic industries to unfair competition.
The opposition also expressed alarm over references to opening India’s agriculture sector, asking how farmer interests would be protected if foreign access increases. Additionally, Congress questioned Trump’s claim that India had agreed to halt purchases of discounted Russian oil, calling for clarity on whether such a commitment had actually been made.
