India–US Trade Deal Fully Safeguards Farmers’ Interests: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday dismissed opposition claims that the India–US Trade Deal threatens Indian farmers, stating that the agreement firmly protects agriculture and dairy sectors. Addressing the media in New Delhi, he said farmers’ interests remain non-negotiable and fully secure under the agreement.

Farmers’ Welfare at the Core of the Deal

The minister said the trade agreement was framed under the clear guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who made it clear from the beginning that farmers’ welfare would not be compromised. He said the deal reflects India’s economic priorities while protecting the backbone of the rural economy.

Chouhan stated that India’s staple grains, food crops, fruits, millets, and dairy products face no threat from the agreement. He said the interests of both small and large farmers have been safeguarded and that the deal focuses on opportunity rather than exposure to risk.

Responding to concerns that small farmers could be affected by increased access for American agricultural products, the minister said no sudden or disruptive inflow of foreign goods will take place. He said the government has not opened any agricultural market segment in a way that could harm domestic farmers.

He stressed that all major crops, food grains, fruits, and dairy products remain protected, and no pressure has been placed on Indian farmers through the agreement.

Clarification on US Claims

Addressing confusion created by a recent social media post from the US Treasury Secretary about access for American farm products, Chouhan said the facts have already been clarified in Parliament. He referred to statements made by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, who explained that India has not diluted safeguards for sensitive agricultural sectors.

Chouhan said opposition claims misrepresent the agreement and risk creating unnecessary fear among farmers.

Highlighting the benefits of the deal, the minister said lower tariffs will help expand exports of rice, spices, and textiles. He said India already exports rice to several countries, including the United States, and recently recorded rice exports worth about ₹63,000 crore.

He added that improved access for textile exports will benefit millions of cotton farmers across the country, as the sector depends heavily on cotton cultivation for livelihoods.

On the opposition’s demand for a detailed explanation of the trade deal in Parliament, Chouhan said the government will share all details at the appropriate time. He said transparency will be maintained and Parliament will remain informed as the process moves forward.

Farmers Are Annadata

Reiterating the government’s position, the minister said farmers are the nation’s Annadata and form the foundation of India’s economy. He said protecting farmers is both a national responsibility and a moral duty, and assured that the government will continue to stand with farmers at every step.