Farmers’ Interests Protected, No Market Being Opened: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has reassured farmers amid concerns over the recent India-US trade deal, stating that their interests are fully protected and no agricultural market is being opened for them.

He emphasized the importance of farmers, saying, “Farmers are our annadata, the providers of life. Protecting their interests means protecting the interests of the nation. Serving farmers is like serving God.”

Concerns have been raised, particularly regarding the agriculture and dairy sectors, following the trade agreement with the United States. However, the Modi government has maintained that the deal safeguards India’s core interests.

No Risk to Agricultural and Dairy Sectors

Addressing the issue on Thursday, Chouhan reiterated that no Indian agricultural markets are being opened under the deal. He said there is no doubt that India’s major food grains, fruits, dairy products, and millets remain fully protected.

Responding to a tweet by the US Treasury Secretary claiming increased exports of American agricultural products, Chouhan told news agency ANI that Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal had already clarified the situation in Parliament.

“I repeat that the interests of Indian farmers—whether small or large—are fully safeguarded. No such market has been opened that could pose a threat to their livelihoods,” he said.

Dairy Products Also Safe

The Agriculture Minister described the trade deal as a new example of diplomacy, development, and mutual respect. “We believe in balanced and strong dialogue, not conflict. The interests of farmers have been fully protected. Our major food grains, fruits, key crops, millets, and dairy products are all safe,” he said.

Chouhan also criticized the Congress and opposition parties for opposing the deal, accusing them of spreading misinformation. He said that tariff reductions under the agreement would help boost exports, including textile exports, which would benefit cotton farmers as well.

Earlier Statement in Parliament

Earlier, on February 4, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal informed Parliament amid disruptions that during trade negotiations, both India and the US ensured the protection of their respective interests.

He added that India successfully safeguarded critical sectors, especially agriculture, farmers, and the dairy industry, while finalizing the trade deal.