Piyush Goyal Asserts India-U.S. Deal Fully Protects Interests of Indian Farmers

Piyush Goyal Asserts India-U.S. Deal Fully Protects Interests of Indian Farmers

Government Reassures Farmers Over Trade Pact

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has firmly stated that the recently finalised India-U.S. trade framework contains no provisions that could harm Indian farmers. Addressing rising concerns around the bilateral agreement, the minister clarified that agriculture and allied sectors were treated as highly sensitive areas during negotiations. He reiterated that farmer welfare remained a top priority for the government throughout the discussion process.

Sensitive Agricultural Sectors Kept Protected

Goyal emphasised that India drew clear “red lines” while negotiating with the United States. According to him, several key farm commodities have been kept completely outside tariff concessions to avoid any negative domestic impact. Staples and sensitive products such as rice, wheat, pulses, sugar, millets, dairy products, poultry, meat, tobacco, and ethanol remain fully protected.

He explained that the government ensured no duty reductions were offered in segments where Indian farmers could face price pressure or import competition. This protective approach, he said, reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding rural livelihoods.

New Export Opportunities for Indian Farmers

While imports in vulnerable categories remain shielded, the agreement is expected to open fresh export avenues for Indian agriculture. Goyal highlighted that multiple farm and food products will gain improved access to the U.S. market.

Fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples, along with spices, tea, coffee, coconut products, mushrooms, and processed foods, are likely to benefit from lower or zero tariffs. The minister noted that this enhanced market access could significantly boost farmers’ incomes by connecting them to high-value global markets.

Boost to Bilateral Trade and Rural Economy

The trade framework forms part of a broader strategy to deepen India-U.S. economic ties. Officials believe the agreement will accelerate bilateral trade growth while creating employment across sectors.

Apart from agriculture, industries such as pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, leather, engineering goods, and technology products are also expected to gain from improved U.S. market access. Goyal said the combined gains across sectors would positively influence rural demand and agri-linked industries.

Government Dismisses Political Criticism

The minister’s clarification comes amid opposition claims that the deal could expose Indian farmers to subsidised American agricultural products. Rejecting these allegations, Goyal asserted that the government did not compromise on farmer interests at any stage.

He maintained that India negotiated from a position of strength and ensured that domestic agriculture would remain insulated from unfair competition.

A Balanced and Forward-Looking Agreement

Describing the pact as “balanced and fair,” Goyal said it simultaneously protects domestic stakeholders and expands export potential. He added that the agreement would help strengthen farmer incomes, generate jobs, and enhance India’s standing in global agricultural trade.

The government has indicated that as India and the U.S. move toward a broader trade partnership, farmer protection will continue to remain central to all future negotiations.