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Mint
6 hours ago
- Business
- Mint
Trump tariffs could hit 70% of India's goods exports: Here's what ICRIER recommended to mitigate the impact
Around 70 per cent of India's goods exports to the US, valued at $60.85 billion, are now exposed to the 50 per cent tariff imposed by the US administration, according to an analysis by ICRIER, a economic policy think tank. This is a significant concern for key Indian sectors, although it represents just 1.56 per cent of GDP and 7.38 per cent of total exports, which is far from a catastrophe for India's $3.9 trillion economy. The report by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations, titled 'Navigating Trump's Tariff Blow' outlines the specific challenges posed by these tariffs on several Indian sectors, along with recommending ways to deal with them, ANI said. The US administration, led by President Donald Trump, initially imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods. This was later increased by another 25 per cent to a total of 50 per cent, a decision reportedly linked with India's continued imports of Russian oil. In contrast to India, competitors such as Vietnam (20 per cent), Bangladesh (18 per cent), Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines (19 per cent), and Japan and South Korea (15 per cent) enjoy lower rates, as per an ANI news report. The impact of the US tariff is heavily concentrated in labor-intensive and high-value sectors, which not only anchor the merchandise exports to the US but also directly affect employment generation and the livelihoods of millions of workers and farmers. These sectors include: Textiles and apparel: This sector now faces a tariff disadvantage of over 30 percentage points compared to rivals like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Vietnam, threatening its competitive position in a key export market. Gems and jewelry: With exports to the US worth $11.9 billion, this sector faces similar challenges against suppliers such as Turkey, Vietnam, and Thailand. Auto parts: Constituting 3 per cent of India's exports to the US, this sector is also vulnerable. Agricultural products: Shrimp exports will be worst hit as 50 per cent tariffs come on top of existing anti-dumping and countervailing duties that India faces, making them uncompetitive with exports from Ecuador, Indonesia, and Vietnam. "These are sectors where buyers can switch sourcing relatively quickly, which gives US importers bargaining power and weakens India's negotiating position," the report said. However, it's important to note that the new US tariff regime excludes pharmaceuticals, energy products, critical minerals, and semiconductors. To mitigate the negative effects of the tariffs, the ICRIER report proposes a three-pronged strategic response for India: Smart negotiations: Engage in logical and rational negotiations with the US to find a mutually agreed resolution. Targeted relief: Provide immediate and targeted relief support to the hard hit sectors to help them deal with the tariff related losses. Trade diversification: On high priority, it's crucial to diversify export markets to reduce dependency on the US and build long-term resilience. President Donald Trump has imposed 'reciprocal tariffs' on dozens of countries with which the US has a trade deficit. Since assuming office for his second term, Trump has reiterated his stance on tariff reciprocity, emphasizing that his administration will match tariffs imposed by other countries, including India, to "ensure fair trade". Post that, India and the US initiated talks for a just, balanced, and mutually beneficial Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) in March this year, with an objective to complete the first stage of the Agreement by October-November 2025. Faced with tariffs, during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in a statement that the government is examining the impact of tariffs and will take all necessary steps to safeguard the nation's interest, the ANI news report said. On India's import of crude oil from Russia, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) made its position clear, stating that India's imports are meant to ensure the disbursal of affordable energy to the Indian consumer. MEA also said that the targeting of India is "unjustified and unreasonable".
India.com
9 hours ago
- Business
- India.com
Trump Tariffs: Over 70% Indian exports exposed due to..., will heavily impact THESE high-value sectors because...
Representational Image Trump Tariffs: About 70 percent of Indian exports to the United States, equivalent to USD 60.85 billion, stand exposed due to the 50 percent import duty imposed by US President Donald Trump, a new report has revealed. Which sectors will be hit hardest? As per an analysis by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), Trump tariffs will heavily impact high-value sectors such as textiles and apparel, gems and jewellery, auto parts and agricultural products, particularly shrimp exports. 'These sectors not only anchor the merchandise exports to the US but also directly affect employment generation and the livelihoods of millions of workers and farmers,' the ICRIER report said. The report noted that India's textiles and apparel sector could lose its competitive edge in a key export market as it faces a tariff disadvantage of over 30 percentage points compared to competitors like Bangladesh, Pakistan and Vietnam. Similarly, the gems and jewellery exports face challenges from suppliers in countries like Turkey, Vietnam, and Thailand, while auto parts, which constitute 3 percent of India's exports to the US, are also vulnerable. According to the report, shrimp exports will be the worst in the agricultural sector as Trump tariffs imposed on India are higher than those slapped on competitors like Ecuador, Indonesia, and Vietnam. 'These are sectors where buyers can switch sourcing relatively quickly, which gives US importers bargaining power and weakens India's negotiating position,' the report stated. What response ICRIER suggests? In its report, the ICRIER suggested a three-pronged response to Trump tariffs, including 'smart' trade negotiations, relief for heavily impacted sectors, and diversification of India's export markets. 'Firstly, smart negotiations with logic and rationality. Secondly, announce immediate and targeted relief support to hard hit sectors, and last on high priority, diversify our export markets.' . 'The success of our leaders will be ensuring that short-term disruptions give way to long-term gains, reinforcing India's position as a trusted and indispensable player in the global economy,' the ICRIER report concluded.
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Business Standard
a day ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Vitamin D toxicity: Excess levels can cause kidney stones, heart problems
Vitamin D, often called the 'sunshine vitamin', is vital for bone strength, immunity, and overall health. According to a study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), published earlier this year, one in five Indians is Vitamin-D deficient. While deficiency can cause its own set of problems, experts share that too much vitamin D can lead to dangerous effects on the kidneys and heart. "Vitamin D is very important for health, but like many things in medicine, it can cause problems if too much is taken. I have had numerous patients who were simply taking more Vitamin D than their body required and ended up with significant heart and kidney problems," said Dr Syed Mustafa Ashraf, Senior Consultant internal Medicine, CARE Hospitals. When vitamin D turns harmful "You won't get toxic levels from sunlight or diet. The risk comes with taking too many supplements over time. In numbers, we usually start worrying when 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels go beyond about 100–150 ng/mL," informed Dr Anirban Chattopadhyay, critical care specialist at The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI). "Repeated readings with levels greater than 100 ng/mL can increase the risk of hypercalcemia and related disease," added Dr Haresh Mehta, DNB (Cardiology), MD (Internal Medicine) at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai Self-prescribing mega-doses or taking potent capsules without testing is a common cause. Online products with inaccurate labelling can also lead to accidental overdose. "People hear about the benefits, start high-dose tablets on their own, and keep going for months without checking their levels. It's even riskier if they're also on calcium tablets, or if they have kidney problems, because the kidneys can't clear the excess efficiently," explained Dr Chattopadhyay. How excess vitamin D affects kidneys and heart "Evidence suggests that dietary vitamin D may be carried by lipoprotein particles and enter artery wall cells and atherosclerotic plaque, and may be converted to its active form by monocycle-macrophages. The resulting active form raises the question of the role of vitamin D intake on atherosclerotic calcification (calcium deposits within the arterial walls) and whether it would raise cardiovascular risk with increased vascular calcification. Any excess vitamin D can also elevate blood calcium concentrations (hypercalcemia) and be arrhythmic to the heart," said Dr Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan. "In the case of excess calcium for the kidney, this means the kidneys need to filter the excess calcium, excrete it, and can lead to kidney stones, calcium accumulation in the kidney tissue (nephrocalcinosis), and acute kidney injury," he further added. Signs you might have excessive vitamin D The main driver of symptoms is hypercalcaemia, which means that there is excess calcium in the blood. This can trigger: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or abdominal pain Extreme thirst and frequent urination Confusion, headaches, or unusual tiredness Muscle weakness and bone pain Irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure How much vitamin D is safe? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin required for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus. "It allows for the mineralization of the bone, the functioning of muscles, immune function, and the conduction of nerves. Adequate levels prevent rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults. It also plays a part in the inhibition of inflammation and the regulation of cell growth," explained Dr Mehta. Dr Patil shared the recommended daily intake - Age 19 to 50: 600 IU/day Age 50 to 70: at least 600 IU/day Over 70: at least 800 IU/day The maximum suggested daily limit for healthy adults is 4,000 IU/day. However, toxicity can occur in susceptible individuals with as little as 2,000 IU/day. Treatment and prevention Dr Ashraf shared that the treatment for vitamin D toxicity usually involves: Stopping all vitamin D and calcium supplements until advised. Administering IV fluids to address dehydration. Using medications like corticosteroids and bisphosphonates in severe cases to block bone resorption. In rare instances with significant kidney damage, hemodialysis may be required. Talking about the right way to take vitamin D supplements, Dr Mickey Mehta, global holistic health guru, said, 'Without magnesium, Vitamin D3 remains inactive. Magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens, along with Vitamin K2 from fermented foods or ghee, create essential harmony for the nutrients to be absorbed optimally. K2 directs calcium to bones and away from arteries, preventing calcification. Magnesium, Vitamin D3, and K2 work synergistically, so isolated supplementation can cause imbalance.' Knowing your safe limit, watching for warning signs, and getting medical advice before making major changes can protect both your heart and kidneys.
Economic Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
‘US too large to write off': Trump's 50% tariffs threaten 70% of India's exports, ICRIER warns
New tariffs from Donald Trump may impact seventy percent of India's exports. ICRIER suggests policy changes and trade talks with the US. Focus areas include agriculture and GM crops. Textiles and gems are vulnerable sectors. The report urges modernization and diversification. It proposes re-engagement with the US and FTAs with other nations. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Focus on agriculture in trade talks Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads High-risk sectors beyond agriculture Turning crisis into reform ICRIER's recommended strategy Smart US re-engagement – Negotiate science-based access for GM crops, ethanol corn, and dairy; pursue balanced market access. Targeted relief – Provide urgent fiscal and policy support for severely impacted sectors such as textiles and gems. Export diversification – Reduce dependence on the US by accelerating free trade agreements with the EU, UK, and CPTPP nations, and expanding outreach to Africa and ASEAN markets. Policy shifts proposed Slash tariffs on low-risk imports like walnuts, berries, and cereals. Move from protection to productivity by prioritising R&D, logistics upgrades, and regulatory reforms. Recognise that the damage, while not uniform across all exports, will be concentrated in labour-heavy sectors that are central to India's employment base. India cannot afford to treat the United States as dispensable in global trade, even as it seeks closer economic ties with the UK, EU, and other partners, the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) has a new paper, the think tank estimates that almost 70% of India's exports now face the brunt of US President Donald Trump's recently announced 50% tariff hike, as reported by Business Today.'The US remains too large and too important to write off,' the report stressed, urging New Delhi to adopt a two-pronged response, shield vulnerable sectors such as textiles and gems with targeted relief, and re-engage Washington through 'smart, tactical' negotiations that resolve long-standing agricultural by economists Ashok Gulati, Sulakshana Rao, and Tanay Suntwal, the paper calls for upcoming trade discussions to prioritise contentious farm issues, especially American demands on genetically modified (GM) products. The authors said the talks should be guided by 'scientific evidence rather than ideology.'Among the proposals: permit GM corn imports for ethanol blending or poultry feed, and consider easing restrictions on GM soya in seed form, India already imports soya oil. They also recommended steep duty cuts on non-sensitive farm imports with limited domestic production, such as walnuts (currently taxed at 120%), cranberries, blueberries, and breakfast dairy, ICRIER suggests introducing a tariff rate quota system, allowing a capped volume of imports at lower duties while keeping higher tariffs above that limit. The paper also floats the idea of a certification scheme, similar to halal standards, to assure American buyers that cattle are pasture-grazed or fed on non-meat farm exports may be somewhat insulated, labour-intensive manufacturing faces sharper pain. Textiles and apparel confront a tariff disadvantage of more than 30% compared to rivals Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Vietnam, threatening to erode market share unless the government steps in with subsidies, tax rebates, or other gems and jewellery sector is in even greater peril. With 50% tariffs, the report warns the industry could 'come to a standstill very soon.' Other at-risk segments include herbal products, nutraceuticals, and auto exports are flagged as a critical short-term casualty. Producers in Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Odisha risk steep value losses and rapid market share erosion. Semi-milled rice exports could also lose ground to competitors like Thailand and than falling back on blanket protectionism, ICRIER argues that the tariff shock should be treated as a catalyst for structural change. The paper calls for investment in infrastructure, supply chain efficiency, and R&D 'on the scale of the 1991 liberalisation.'The report's bottom line: India's trade relationship with the US is too significant to abandon. Navigating this tariff storm will require both immediate relief measures and longer-term competitiveness upgrades, while keeping the door to Washington firmly open.
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Business Standard
07-08-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies: A growing public health concern in India
A viral social media post recently mentioned that India needs a polio-like drive to tackle Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D deficiencies among adults. The appeal struck a chord with many, with users calling it a 'silent epidemic' and urging the Health Ministry to step in. According to a study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), published earlier this year, one in five Indians is Vitamin D deficient, with 46 per cent of children (aged 0–10 years) suffering from rickets. Separately, a 2022 study in The Egyptian Journal of Internal Medicine reported that around 75 per cent of India's population, over 650 million people suffer from Vitamin B12 deficiency, largely due to differences in diet, demography, and religion. 'Vitamin D deficiency affects 70–90 per cent of Indians, even among urban, middle-class adults. Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent in 50–70 per cent of vegetarians and 40–50 per cent of the rest of the population,' said Dr Amyn Rajani, consultant knee, shoulder, hip surgeon and founder, OAKS Clinic, Mumbai. Who is most at risk? Health experts point out that urban office-goers, women, the elderly, and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies. Vitamin B12 deficiency is commonly seen in vegetarians, as the primary dietary source of B12 is animal-based protein. Those with malabsorption syndromes or individuals on long-term medications such as metformin or antacids are also at increased risk. Meanwhile, people living in cities are particularly prone to Vitamin D deficiency due to limited exposure to sunlight, as many spend most of their time indoors. What's behind India's vitamin crisis? 'Some medicines, such as steroids, anti-seizure drugs, and drugs that decrease cholesterol, can make it difficult for the body to digest Vitamin D3. A diet low in fat or having a poor stomach (such IBS or coeliac disease) can also make it tougher for the body to digest nutrients. Eating a lot of foods that are high in fibre or phytic acid, like uncooked bran, may also make it difficult for the body to get the nutrients it needs,' said Dr R Nanda Kumar, senior consultant for general medicine with SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. 'Vegetarian diet is one of the major reasons for widespread B12 deficiency in India. This vitamin is naturally found in meat, eggs, and dairy which many Indians do not take. This puts vegetarians at higher risk of deficiency,' said Dr Shweta Mendiratta, associate clinical director & head of obstetrics & gynaecology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad. Health effects one shouldn't ignore Experts share some possible symptoms for Vitamin D deficiency: Muscle and bone pain Increased sensitivity to pain Tingly, 'pins-and-needles' sensation in the hands or feet Muscle weakness with twitches, spasms or tremors History of broken bones Bowed legs (when the deficiency is severe) 'If not treated, Vitamin D deficiency will gradually weaken bones and muscles, causing premature osteopenia, osteoporosis, bone pain, increased fracture risk, tiredness, and in children, rickets. It is also associated with an increased risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and certain autoimmune diseases,' said Dr Lipika Parulekar, internal medicine at Lilavati Hospital Mumbai. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include: Feeling exhausted or weak Experiencing nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea Appetite and weight loss Sore mouth or tongue Yellowish skin Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet Vision problems Having a hard time remembering things or getting confused easily Difficult time walking or speaking like you usually do Feeling depressed and irritable Change in the way you feel and behave 'If vitamin B12 deficiency goes untreated, neurological symptoms including numbness, tingling, and cognitive impairment can set in, where the symptoms could prove to be irreversible, and cause permanent nerve damage in the worst instances," said Dr Anirban Chattopadhyay, critical care specialist with CMRI Kolkata (The Calcutta Medical Research Institute). 'As a gynaecologist, I often see these deficiencies in women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and even post-menopausal women. This is worrying as these two vitamins have a crucial role to play in maintaining hormonal balance, bone health, and fetal development,' added Dr Mendiratta. Is self-supplementation a safe option? In India, over-the-counter Vitamin D and B12 supplements are widely available but that doesn't mean they should be taken without guidance. Excessive or unmonitored use can do more harm than good. 'Self-supplementation with Vitamin D or B12 without proper medical guidance is strongly not recommended. While both nutrients are critically important, misuse can lead to an opposite reaction. A 2016-2019 study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology reported that repeated high-dose vitamin D3 injections caused hypercalcemia, renal damage, and even one fatality, with serum D levels above 300 ng/mL. Symptoms related to a deficiency of nutrients can also result from more significant underlying malabsorption and chronic diseases,' said Dr Mukesh Batra, founder and chairman emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare. Adding to the point, Dr Rajani said, 'While taking B12 supplements is safer, excessive use may mask underlying issues like pernicious anaemia (an autoimmune condition that prevents your body from absorbing vitamin B12).' What works better? For many, a healthy diet with fortified foods, dairy, leafy greens, and sunlight exposure might help. But in cases of severe deficiency, dietary changes alone may not be enough. 'Unfortunately, dietary and lifestyle techniques are rarely sufficient in the case of moderate to severe [Vit-D and B12] deficiencies. In those situations, we need to provide medically supervised supplementation to intervene quickly. Once deficiencies are medically addressed, then we can work to make lifestyle modifications like nutrition, sun exposure, and address malabsorption issues,' said Dr Batra. Dr Parulekar added, 'Trace amounts of B12 are present in milk, which may be inadequate to meet the daily needs, especially in strict vegetarians and vegan vegetarians. Enriched and fortified foods can benefit vegetarians as a source of B12, but most of this group requires individual supplements, oral tablets or injections in consultation with a physician.' ' The sun is the best way to get Vitamin D. However, those with darker skin have more melanin, which makes it harder for their skin to generate D3,' said Dr Kumar. He explained that people need blood tests to check their vitamin levels once or twice a year, especially after the monsoon or winter season. 'People with chronic illnesses, osteoporosis, obesity, or symptoms like fatigue and muscle pain may need to be tested more often than people who are healthy,' he said. Does India need a national health mission? Some healthcare professionals are now calling for a national campaign to address the concern. With the scale of deficiency being comparable to public health crises of the past, India may need mass screening, awareness drives, and food fortification policies. Adding to the discourse, Dr Chattopadhyay said, 'Food fortification is very much a proven and scalable solution for a diverse country like India. Fortification of staples, namely milk, oils, cereals, and flour, with Vitamins D and B12 can facilitate reaching out to the general population, especially in rural and low-income areas, where healthcare access is an issue.' 'Given the high prevalence and silent impact, this is a public health concern. Deficiencies of these vitamins impair quality of life, productivity, and increase healthcare burden due to fractures, fatigue, and neuropathy. The awareness is low even among the educated. National campaigns can drive early testing, sun exposure education, and safe supplementation,' said Dr Rajani. Dr Amyn Rajani of OAKS Clinic recommends: Mandatory fortification of staple foods with Vitamin D and B12 Mass awareness campaigns, similar to those for polio or anaemia Routine screening for pregnant women, the elderly, and vegetarians Subsidised supplements through public health programmes Training for general physicians to recognise early signs and conduct proactive screening Encouraging urban design that allows more sun exposure, such as open spaces in schools and offices.
