New Delhi [India], August 7 (ANI): Senior agriculture experts and award-winning farmers have supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strong message defending Indian farmers' interests, after the United States announced an additional 25 per cent increase in tariffs on Indian goods.

Reacting to the ongoing trade tensions, Senior Agriculture Scientist Anupam Varma said the Prime Minister had sent the 'right message' to the world and that the government must not compromise on farmer welfare.

Speaking to ANI, Varma said, 'PM Modi is giving 100% correct message, not only to the country but to the world. The interest of the farmers is primary for us... We cannot compromise on the interests of the farmers. PM is absolutely right.'

Pooja Sharma, a Rashtrapati Award winner for farming and agriculture, also backed the Prime Minister's stand. She said, 'What PM Modi said is right. Farmers are the backbone of the country. A country cannot progress without farmers. If the farmers are profitable, the country will get empowered... PM Modi is doing a very good job for the welfare of the farmers, and we are proud of him.'

Kunal Gahlot, a National Awardee for Unique Agriculture, said that the government had taken a bold stand by resisting foreign pressure.

'This is a very big thing. PM Modi is paying a very heavy price. You must be seeing how the United States is behaving. The biggest thing for the farmers is that our government did not compromise. If we had imported dairy products, the farmers would have to bear losses. Now, for the benefit of farmers, our government is not allowing foreign companies to come and sell their products in India... This is a very good decision by the government...,' he said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi had made a strong statement rejecting US pressure on agricultural trade, saying India would never compromise on the interests of its farmers.

'For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready for it,' the Prime Minister said.

His comments came after the US administration under President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent. The US has been seeking greater access to India's agricultural market, including products such as corn, soybeans, and cotton, during trade negotiations. (ANI)