<h1>Commerce minister says India-US ties stay positive despite 50% US tariffs; talks, budget reforms, tech and skilling to boost growth</h1> The Union Commerce Minister said India-US relations remain positive despite recent strains after the US imposed 50% tariffs and heightened rhetoric over oil purchases; bilateral talks are ongoing and will address issues satisfactorily. He praised the Prime Minister's welfare and development initiatives, highlighted budget measures promising higher tax exemptions and GST reforms intended to lower consumer prices and boost industry, and described health, environmental and social programs for women and families. The minister credited infrastructure expansion in a major state for economic momentum and stressed technology and skilling as drivers of future growth, while asserting continued political commitment to principled governance.