Analysis of Indo-US Trade Relations 

India's approach to trade negotiations with the US needs to be strategic and cautious. The prevalent mindset in some elite circles in India, which supports concessions to America, misinterprets the current geopolitical climate. There are several key considerations to keep in mind:

Key Considerations in Trade Negotiations

• Imperial Nature of Current US Policies:
  • The current administration is not merely resetting capitalism but is leaning towards 19th-century imperial tactics, characterized by unilateral benefits.
  • The US is imposing asymmetric tariffs and expecting other countries to reduce their tariffs to zero without offering reciprocal advantages.
• Industrial and Agricultural Policies:
  • The US reserves the right to maintain its own industrial and subsidized agricultural policies while demanding other countries, like India, alter theirs.
• Global Challenges and US Stance:
  • There is a lack of US commitment towards addressing climate change, with a preference for enhancing a fossil-fuel-driven economy.
• Technological and Regulatory Interference:
  • The US is imposing its regulatory standards on other nations, particularly in technology and content moderation.
• Currency and Economic Influence:
  • The US seeks to maintain its currency's privileged status through coercion rather than enhancing its economic institutions' attractiveness.
• Deterioration of Global Institutions:
  • The US is undermining international institutions that could offer global public goods and is sanctioning officials performing their duties.
• Immigration Policies:
  • The US's arbitrary and often cruel immigration policies are aimed at sending a message rather than practical governance.

Implications for India

• National Dignity and Interests: Conceding to these US demands could undermine India's dignity and national interests, as these policies are imperial in nature.
• Strategic Partnership Dynamics: While a productive partnership with the US can be beneficial, it should be based on shared political values like liberty, constitutionalism, and an open society.
• Long-term Global Impact: Capitulating to the US’s imperialistic reset could have negative ramifications for global governance and international relations.

Conclusion

India must navigate its trade negotiations with the US carefully, recognizing the imperialistic nature of current US policies and how they contradict the ideals of mutual respect and beneficial partnership. Aligning with the US should not come at the cost of India’s sovereignty or the global public good.