India-US Trade Deal: Agriculture and dairy safe; farmers’ interests secured, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Amid opposition claims over the India-US trade deal, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has clarified that the agreement does not compromise Indian agriculture, particularly the agriculture and dairy sectors.

He described the deal as a demonstration of diplomacy, development, and dignity under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising that farmers’ interests have always been the top priority.

Key crops, fruits, and dairy fully protected

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Addressing the media, Chouhan said that major grains, millets, fruits, and dairy products are fully protected. “There is no threat to Indian agriculture or dairy. Farmers’ interests are completely secure, and this deal will open up new opportunities for them,” he said.

Assurance for small farmers

Responding to concerns that small farmers might be affected, the minister stated that no sudden or disruptive entry of foreign products will take place in the Indian market. “All our major crops, grains, fruits, and dairy products are safe. No market has been opened in a way that could harm Indian farmers,” Chouhan said.

On speculation caused by a tweet from the US Treasury Secretary regarding higher imports of US farm products, Chouhan noted that Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had already clarified the facts in Parliament. “Both small and large Indian farmers’ interests are fully protected,” he added.

Boost for rice, spices, and textile exports

Chouhan highlighted that India is already a major exporter of rice, including to the US, with recent exports totalling around Rs 63,000 crore. He said tariff reductions under the trade deal will boost exports of rice, spices, and textiles, directly benefiting cotton farmers.

“Overall, this agreement is in the best interest of Indian farmers. Despite misinformation from the opposition, the facts are clear: farmers’ interests are secure and new export opportunities are opening up,” Chouhan said.

When asked about opposition demands for the government to present the fine print of the trade deal in Parliament, Chouhan reiterated that all details will be shared in due course. “The main point is clear: farmers’ interests are fully protected,” he said.

'Farmers are Annadata': Shivraj Singh Chouhan

The minister stressed that serving farmers is akin to worship for the government. He said:

“Farmers are our Annadata, the providers of life. Their welfare is the nation’s welfare, and their interests are absolutely secure.”

Chouhan also recalled PM Modi’s assurance, “I will never let the country bow down, and I have never let it bow. No matter the loss, I will not allow farmers’ interests to be compromised.”

“We have fully protected our key grains, dairy products, and fruits. No market is being opened that could harm our farmers,” he concluded.