Indian Farmers’ Interests Safeguarded in US-India Trade Agreement
Amidst discussions surrounding the US-India trade agreement, concerns have been raised by various stakeholders regarding the impact on Indian farmers. Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, a prominent member of the J&K People’s Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized the importance of ensuring that the agreement does not compromise the interests of Indian farmers. He stated, “We don’t have any problem if the agreement is not affecting the farmers. We should get an assurance that the interests of the farmers are safeguarded.”
Similarly, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reassured the public that the government has taken measures to protect the interests of farmers in the interim framework for the US-India trade agreement. Chouhan highlighted the significance of safeguarding Indian economic interests, stating, “The government of India needs to ensure that India’s interests are safeguarded. It should not look like the deal is being done to make Donald Trump, some capital class happy…Our economic interests should not be surrendered. Government should ensure that Indian economic interests are safe.”
Chouhan further elaborated on the benefits of the trade agreement, noting that it would provide Indian farmers with access to US markets for exports. He expressed optimism about the potential for Indian agricultural products to excel in the US market, stating, “Our basmati rice will rock the US.”
The framework for the Interim Agreement between India and the US reaffirms the commitment of both countries to ongoing Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations. The joint statement issued by the two nations underlined their dedication to finalizing a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade agreement that supports resilient supply chains and market access commitments.
Both India and the US have pledged to promptly implement the framework and work towards concluding the Interim Agreement, with the ultimate goal of establishing a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement in accordance with the agreed roadmap.
Overall, the discussions surrounding the US-India trade agreement underscore the importance of prioritizing the interests of Indian farmers and safeguarding the country’s economic interests in international trade deals.
