In the India Today-CVoter Mood of the Nation survey, 45 percent of respondents called for reciprocal tariffs in response to US tariffs. The poll, conducted from December 8, 2025, to January 21, 2026, involved 36,265 people across demographics. India has handled the issue with restraint so far.
US President Donald Trump's imposition of 50 percent tariffs on India has stirred global trade tensions, stemming from frustration over India's purchases of cheap crude oil from Russia. According to the India Today-CVoter 'Mood of the Nation' (MOTN) survey, 45 percent of Indians have urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to impose reciprocal tariffs in response.
The poll also found 34 percent advocating for cuts in GST rates, while just 6 percent suggested accepting Trump's demands. India has navigated the issue with restraint and maturity, even as a proposed trade deal with the US remains in limbo. The government has pursued new trade agreements with Britain, Oman, New Zealand, and the European Union, offering relief to labor-intensive sectors like textiles, gems, jewelry, and footwear hit hard by the tariffs.
In November last year, India quietly imposed a 30 percent tariff on lentils imported from the US, which had an impact. Commerce Ministry data shows India's exports to the US fell 1.83 percent year-on-year to $6.88 billion in December 2025. PM Modi has not yet commented directly, focusing instead on diversifying exports.
The survey encompasses 36,265 respondents from all age groups, castes, religions, and genders, reflecting broad public sentiment.
