What Common Indians Think About Donald Trump and the US Now

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by

Himanshu
in ,

For ordinary Indians, Donald Trump’s actions against India — tariffs, trade pressures, and tough talk — are nothing new. Most people see it as part of a long American habit of putting its own interests first. But here’s what the common man in India really thinks about Trump and America today.

1. Not Surprised – America Has Done This Before

The US has a history of turning protectionist whenever it suits them. From the Cold War era sanctions to restrictions on India’s nuclear program in the 1990s, we’ve seen this playbook before. Trump may have been louder, but he wasn’t unique.

“Bhai, America has always done this. Today it’s Trump, yesterday it was someone else. Why should we be shocked?” — Ramesh, small business owner from Gurgaon

Example: In the early 2000s, the US imposed restrictions on Indian steel and textile exports. Today, similar tactics are being repeated under new packaging.

Then vs Now: How India Handles US Pressure

Era / EventUS ActionIndia’s Position ThenIndia’s Response Now
1990s – Post-Pokhran Nuclear TestsUS imposed economic sanctions on India for nuclear testsIndia was diplomatically isolated, faced global pressureIndia is now a recognized nuclear power, part of global forums (BRICS, Quad), and sanctions are no longer a threat
Early 2000s – Trade RestrictionsUS restricted Indian steel, textiles, and IT outsourcingIndia lobbied hard to get concessions, showing dependencyIndia has diversified trade with UAE, EU, Japan, ASEAN, reducing overdependence on US markets
2019 – End of GSP StatusUS revoked India’s “Generalized System of Preferences,” impacting exportersIndian exporters faced sudden lossesIndia responded by imposing retaliatory tariffs and strengthening trade deals with UAE & EU
2020 – Pressure on Oil ImportsUS pressured India to cut Iranian oil importsIndia complied initially due to fear of sanctionsIn 2022–23, India defied US pressure and imported discounted Russian oil, saving billions
Today – Tariffs & Trade PressureUS raises tariffs under “America First” policiesEarlier, India might have compromised to keep relations stableNow, India stands firm, supported by public trust in Modi, and seeks alternatives instead of bowing down

This table highlights how India has moved from dependency to independence, showing strength in trade, diplomacy, and global partnerships.

2. India Has Evolved and Will Keep Evolving

Unlike the 1990s, India is not a fragile economy anymore. With a $4 trillion economy, fastest-growing GDP among major nations, and trade diversification, we can withstand US pressure. India is also strengthening ties with countries like Japan, UAE, and EU to reduce dependency.

“Now India doesn’t need to beg for markets. We have options everywhere.” — Sunita, IT professional from Lucknow

Example: India’s trade with the Middle East and ASEAN has grown sharply in the last decade, offsetting any potential loss from US restrictions.

How India Reduced Reliance on the US: Sector-Wise Breakdown

India has steadily diversified its partnerships across major sectors, reducing overdependence on the US. Here’s a sector-wise look:

SectorEarlier Reliance on USIndia’s Current DiversificationExample / Fact
IT & TechnologyHeavy reliance on outsourcing contracts from US companiesExpanding into EU, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific marketsTCS, Infosys, and Wipro now generate significant revenue from Europe and APAC
Agriculture & TradeIndia exported large volumes of rice, spices, and textiles to the USDiversified exports to Gulf nations, ASEAN, and AfricaUAE-India CEPA boosted agricultural exports in 2023
DefenseIndia relied on US arms deals and military supportStrengthened defense ties with Russia, France, and IsraelIndia bought Rafale jets from France; S-400 systems from Russia
EnergyDependency on US shale oil importsMajor imports from Russia, Middle East, and renewable expansionRussian oil imports in 2022–23 saved India ~$3.6 billion
Pharma & HealthcareUS was top buyer of Indian genericsExpanded exports to Africa, Latin America, and ASEANIndia remains “Pharmacy of the World,” exporting to 200+ nations
Space & TechnologyNASA tie-ups dominated cooperationCollaborations with France (CNES), Israel, and JapanChandrayaan-3 success boosted ISRO’s global credibility
ManufacturingUS was seen as a key investor and buyerStrong FDI from Japan, UAE, Singapore, and EUApple, Samsung, and Foxconn expanding manufacturing in India

Key Takeaway

India hasn’t cut ties with the US, but it has spread its opportunities across multiple partners. This ensures that no single country — including the US — can dictate terms to India anymore.

3. No Pressure on Modi – Full Trust Nationwide

One key difference today is the massive public support for PM Modi. Tariffs or restrictions from the US don’t create domestic pressure, because Indians believe Modi can handle it. He is seen as a leader who won’t compromise India’s sovereignty.

“We trust Modi ji. Even if the US plays games, he will take care of India.” — Arvind, shopkeeper from Varanasi

Fact: Modi’s approval ratings consistently remain among the highest for world leaders (often above 70%), showing nationwide confidence in his leadership despite global tensions.

4. US Influence Over India is Shrinking

In the past, US decisions had a strong influence on India’s foreign policy. But now, with stronger ties with Russia for defense, Europe for trade, and Middle Eastern countries for energy, America’s leverage has reduced.

“Earlier, America’s words carried weight. Now, India listens but doesn’t obey blindly.” — Kavita, college teacher from Pune

Example: Despite US pressure, India continued importing discounted oil from Russia after the Ukraine conflict, saving billions.

5. Trust is Broken – Even if Tariffs Are Removed

Indians now see the US as inconsistent. Today, they may impose tariffs; tomorrow, they may lift them. That unpredictability has damaged trust. Even if tariffs are removed, the suspicion will linger.

“How do you trust a friend who changes colors every season?” — Manoj, cab driver from Delhi

Example: In 2019, the US ended India’s preferential trade status under the GSP program suddenly, hurting Indian exporters. That memory still sticks.

6. India Won’t Do “Yes Sir” Anymore

The era of India bending to great powers is over. India will engage as an equal partner — not a follower.

“India is no one’s servant. Friendship is fine, but bossing won’t work anymore.” — Shalini, college student from Bengaluru

Example: India refused to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade deal despite pressure, because it wasn’t in India’s interest.

7. New Alliances, New Opportunities

The world is multipolar now. India is building strong ties with the EU, Africa, Japan, UAE, and others. This reduces overreliance on the US.

“If one door closes, India has ten more to open.” — Iqbal, textile trader from Surat

Fact: India’s exports to the UAE rose significantly after the India-UAE CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement), showing the strength of alternative trade routes.

8. Trump as a Symbol, Not the Exception

Most Indians see Trump not as an outlier but as a symbol of how America operates — self-interest first. Whether it’s Trump, Biden, or the next president, Indians don’t expect drastic change.

“Trump is not the problem, America’s attitude is. Leaders may change, the approach doesn’t.” — Meena, homemaker from Jaipur

Example: Whether Republican or Democrat, US policy has consistently prioritized American farmers and manufacturers by raising tariffs on foreign goods.

Final Thoughts: A Common Man’s Voice

For the ordinary Indian, Trump’s actions simply confirmed what we already knew: India must stand strong on its own. With Modi enjoying massive nationwide trust, there is no domestic pressure to give in.

The US may come and go as a partner, but India will no longer play the role of “yes man.” If America wants to be a friend, we welcome it. But if it wants to act as a boss, India will politely move forward without them.