Stories
Why the US Struggles to Fit India into its Global Strategy
F
Firstpost•09-10-2026, 14:50
Why the US Struggles to Fit India into its Global Strategy
- •The United States wants India as part of its Western-led ecosystem but struggles with New Delhi maintaining its strategic autonomy.
- •India has refused to sign a Bilateral Trade Agreement with the US unless offered competitive tariffs that give it an edge over regional rivals.
- •Despite US tariff threats and pressure over Russian crude oil purchases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government remains firm and unflustered.
- •Both Washington and Beijing recognize India's rising economic and military might, making the country too large to subvert or control easily.
Key Questions Answered
India has refused to sign the Bilateral Trade Agreement because it insists on receiving tariffs from the US that provide it with a competitive edge over regional competitors rather than caving into pressure.
The act empowers US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on countries that continue to purchase Russian crude oil.
According to the IMF's latest report, India's nominal GDP stands at $4.2 trillion and $19.1 trillion by purchasing power parity, making it the world's third largest economy and a major swing power.
