The day US tariffs hit Indian exports

The day was dominated by the official implementation of 50% US tariffs on Indian imports, which had been a significant focus of media attention in prior days. Early reports detailed the tariffs' activation, with Prime Minister Modi reiterating calls for national self-reliance amidst recalled threats from US President Trump. Simultaneously, a severe natural disaster unfolded as a devastating landslide on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route resulted in an escalating death toll, which tragically rose to at least 34 by early afternoon. Concurrently, broader monsoon havoc impacted North India, notably with severe flooding in Punjab. As the day progressed, diplomatic tensions surrounding the tariffs intensified, with Prime Minister Modi reportedly avoiding multiple calls from President Trump. This led to India initiating strategic plans for outreach to 40 other nations, aiming to diversify markets and counter the economic impact, including reported production halts in textile sectors. US Treasury officials later signaled potential future reconciliation on the issue, while the RSS chief reinforced the "Swadeshi" mantra.