ISLAMABAD: Indian farmers have sharply criticized a proposed interim trade framework between India and the United States, calling it a “surrender to multinational agricultural giants,” as opposition parties accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of yielding to pressure from US President Donald Trump, Indian media reported.
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), a major umbrella body of farmers’ unions, demanded the immediate resignation of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal after details of the agreement emerged, according to The Hindu.
At a press conference, SKM leaders warned the deal would severely hurt India’s agricultural sector, particularly apple and cotton growers, and undermine local economies in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat.
They objected to the inclusion of products such as animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits, calling the framework a “total surrender” to US corporate interests. Union leaders cautioned that US companies could monopolise the animal feed market.
The SKM rejected government claims that agriculture and dairy were excluded, noting dairy products are part of free trade agreements with the UK, New Zealand and the European Union. Accusing the commerce minister of misleading the public, the group renewed its demand for his resignation.
Farmers’ unions announced nationwide protests on Feb. 12 and said they would support a general strike, describing it as a response to the Modi government’s “anti-people policies.”
SKM leaders also highlighted tariff disparities, claiming US tariffs on Indian goods rose to 18% in 2023-24, while Indian tariffs on US agricultural imports were reduced to zero.
Prominent SKM leader Rakesh Tikait questioned the need for imported animal feed, warning it could harm domestic producers and cultural sensitivities.
Meanwhile, opposition Congress leaders alleged the trade deal was influenced by political pressure linked to the so-called “Epstein files.” Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed the agreement sacrificed Indian farmers to protect the prime minister.
In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, M.Y. Tarigami, leader of the Apple Farmers Federation of India, warned that the deal would deal a major blow to apple and dry fruit growers, already struggling with climate and market challenges, and accused the federal government of prioritizing foreign interests over farmers’ livelihoods.
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