Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition, convened a significant meeting at his office in Parliament, welcoming a diverse group of representatives from 17 prominent farmer unions across India on Friday, February, 13. This gathering focused on discussions concerning the India-US interim trade agreement. Sukhpal Singh Khaira, MLA from Bholath and the Chairman of the All India Kisan Congress, shared insights about the dialogue through a social media post.
Concerns Raised by Farmer Leaders
During the meeting, union leaders articulated their apprehensions regarding the potential adverse effects of the trade deal on Indian farmers, particularly those involved in cultivating crops such as corn, soybean, cotton, fruits, and nuts. They emphasized the necessity of initiating a nationwide movement to oppose the agreement, aiming to safeguard the rights and incomes of farmers across the country. Khaira’s post highlighted the urgent call for collective action to defend farmers’ futures.
Delegation Composition
The delegation comprised influential individuals, including Sukhpal S. Khaira, Adv. Ashok Balhara, PT John, and Tejveer Singh, among others. Their united front signals that the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha is preparing for a significant challenge, reminiscent of the nationwide protests that occurred during the 2020-21 farm law debates.
Members of the Delegation
Notable representatives from various organizations included: Sukhpal S Khaira from the All India Kisan Congress, Ranjit S. Sandhu from GKS Rajasthan, Adv. Ashok Balhara from the Bharatiye Kisan Mazdoor Union in Haryana, PT John from KMM Kerala, and several others, collectively addressing the critical issues at hand.
Trade Agreement Details
The interim trade agreement aims to lower tariff barriers while addressing Indian agricultural sensitivities in light of US demands for greater market access. The United States has agreed to reduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian products from as high as 50% to 18%, which is expected to benefit Indian exports in sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, India has expressed a non-binding intent to procure approximately $500 billion worth of US energy and technology over the next five years.
Benefits and Protections for Indian Farmers
As part of the trade framework, the US will provide duty-free access to several Indian agricultural products, including spices, tea, coffee, mangoes, grapes, and cashews, potentially enhancing Indian agricultural exports, which reached $4.45 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25. The government maintains that 90-95% of sensitive agricultural products remain excluded from the agreement, thereby protecting farmers’ interests and ensuring no concessions on essential crops like wheat, rice, and corn.
Government Stance on Agricultural Products
The Indian government has reinforced its commitment to protecting domestic agriculture by stating that it will not permit imports of genetically modified products, and crops such as onions and sugarcane are also exempted from the deal. In an effort to reach a balanced compromise, limited access to specific American products will be implemented gradually, allowing domestic industries time to adjust.
Rahul Gandhi’s Support for Farmers
In a separate statement, Rahul Gandhi reiterated his commitment to supporting the farming community, expressing his intent to fight for farmers’ rights against what he characterized as an “anti-farmer” stance by the government. He has vocally opposed the trade agreements, labeling them as detrimental to Indian agriculture and farmers’ livelihoods.