Operation Sindoor and Tariff Escalation: Link or Coincidence?Operation Sindoor and Tariff Escalation: Link or Coincidence? KHUSHI KUMARIImage Source: XIndia launched Operation Sindoor to evacuate stranded citizens from conflict-hit regions—underscoring a humanitarian and strategic mission Soon after, the U.S. announced new tariffs targeting Indian goods—fueling speculation of diplomatic friction Operation Sindoor’s launch near China's sphere of influence might have raised eyebrows in Washington Upcoming elections in the U.S. may also be influencing protectionist tariff policies India's active international rescue missions and its refusal to bow to pressure show a new confident global posture The sudden tariffs add to a growing list of trade flashpoints—especially in tech, defense, and agriculture Operation Sindoor may signal India’s growing independence, while tariffs might be a counter-message from the West Whether linked or not, both events reveal the shifting power dynamics in global politics—and India’s growing central role