Chouhan Defends India-US Trade Deal, Says It Protects Farmers' Interests
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday strongly defended the recently announced India-US interim trade agreement, describing it as a pact that will "give new wings to dreams of farmers". His comments came a day after the joint statement on the deal was released, amid criticism from the Congress party.
Rejecting Opposition Claims
Chouhan firmly rejected Congress' assertion that the agreement could turn India into a "dumping ground" for US goods. He accused the opposition of creating unnecessary fear and highlighted that the party had failed to connect farmers to global markets or ensure economic stability during its long tenure in governance.
Addressing a press conference in Bhopal, Chouhan emphasized that the trade deal is an excellent example of diplomacy, development, and dignity. "It is not just a commercial agreement but also a symbol of India's growing global prestige. This deal will strengthen our economy while also providing it new direction," he stated.
Key Protections for Indian Agriculture
The minister provided detailed assurances regarding the protection of India's agricultural sector. He noted that major concerns about grains, fruits, and dairy products have been addressed, with these items completely secured from US imports.
Products excluded from US access include:
- Major grains: De-husked grains, flour, wheat, corn, rice, millet
- Vegetables: Potato, onion, peas, beans, cucumber, mushroom, pulses products, frozen vegetables
- Fruits: Oranges, grapes, lemon, strawberry, mixed canned vegetables
- Dairy: Liquid milk, powder, cream, yogurt, buttermilk, butter, ghee, butter oil, paneer, cheese
- Spices: Black pepper, cloves, dry green chilli, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, asafoetida, ginger, turmeric, carom seeds, fenugreek, cassia, mustard, rye, husk, and other powder spices
"The meaning is clear - our spices and our farmers are completely secure," Chouhan affirmed.
Export Opportunities for Indian Farmers
Chouhan also shared a comprehensive list of Indian farm produce that will benefit from zero-duty exports to the United States. This initiative is expected to significantly boost India's agricultural exports and provide new market opportunities for farmers.
Indian products eligible for zero-duty export to the US:
- Spices, tea, coffee
- Coconut and coconut oil
- Betel nut, cashew
- Vegetable wax, avocado
- Banana, guava, mango, kiwi, papaya, pineapple
- Mushroom and some grains
Additional Benefits for Textile Sector
The minister highlighted another significant advantage of the trade deal: reduced tariffs on Indian textiles compared to competing countries. This development is expected to enhance India's textile exports and directly benefit cotton farmers across the nation.
Chouhan concluded by reiterating that the India-US interim trade agreement fully protects the agriculture sector and farmers' interests while opening new avenues for economic growth and international trade partnerships.
