New Delhi, Aug. 7 -- India would put its interests first, even if that means paying a heavy price, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. His remarks came after the US slapped a 50 per cent tariff on India for its continued purchase of Russian oil.

Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in New Delhi, PM Modi made it all but clear that the government was prepared to bear the brunt of the steepest tariffs yet for standing by its farmers and safeguarding national interests.

"For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority," the PM said. "India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers. I know we will have to pay a heavy price for it, and I am ready for it. India is ready ...