- Opposition Questions Trade Terms
- Agriculture Sector Fears Impact
- Political Fallout Intensifies
Article Today, New Delhi:
The recently concluded trade agreement between India and the United States has triggered sharp political and social reactions across the country. Farmers unions have warned that the deal could severely affect Indian agriculture. They allege that the Centre has compromised domestic interests to accommodate large American corporations.
Nationwide Strike Announced
Several farmer organisations have called for a nationwide strike on August 12 to protest the agreement. They have urged supporters to organise demonstrations across villages and towns. Meanwhile, calls have been made to burn effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump as a symbolic protest against the deal.
Farmers’ Groups Mobilise
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the All India Kisan Sabha have announced coordinated protests on the scheduled day. They have demanded greater transparency in the agreement and sought its immediate review. In addition, farmer leaders have asked Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to step down, holding him responsible for the negotiations.
Opposition Sharpens Attack
Opposition parties, including the Congress and Left groups, have criticised the agreement both inside and outside Parliament. They have described the deal as an erosion of India’s economic sovereignty. According to them, reduced import duties on agricultural products such as fruits, cotton, and soybean oil will hurt domestic farmers, particularly apple growers in Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir.
Cautious Response from Affiliates
Organisations linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh have adopted a measured stance. Swadeshi Jagran Manch and Bharatiya Kisan Sangh have urged the government to protect farmers’ interests while resolving concerns through dialogue. However, they have clearly opposed the entry of genetically modified agricultural products under the agreement.
Threat to Key Crops
Experts have warned that large-scale imports of soybean oil and animal feed from the United States could destabilise Indian markets. American farmers receive significant subsidies, allowing them to sell produce at lower prices. Therefore, Indian farmers may find it difficult to compete, particularly in cotton and oilseed cultivation, which is already under stress.
Parliament Set for Debate
Opposition parties plan to raise the issue forcefully in Parliament and demand a detailed response from the government. The discussion may also touch upon broader geopolitical concerns, including U.S. sanctions related to India’s energy imports from Russia. Meanwhile, Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Shivraj Singh Chouhan have assured that farmers’ interests will be safeguarded.
