Farmers Outcry: Modi's Trade Deal With US Sparks Controversy

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha criticizes the Modi government's trade deal with the US, calling it a betrayal to farmers. The deal, which lowers US tariffs and allows entry of subsidized US agricultural products, threatens India's farm sector. Protests and strikes are planned against this agreement.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), representing various farmer unions, has vehemently criticized the Indian government's recent trade agreement with the United States. Labeling it a 'historic betrayal,' the SKM accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of succumbing to US demands, potentially harming Indian agriculture.

The agreement is set to lower tariffs on US goods, a move the SKM claims could inundate Indian markets with subsidized American agricultural products, undermining the domestic farm sector. The SKM referenced Modi's previous promises of safeguarding farmers' interests, viewing the deal as a complete surrender to 'US Imperialism.'

Despite assurances from Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal that India's agricultural and dairy sectors remain protected, farmers plan protests and a general strike to oppose the agreement, warning of widespread devastation to India's agrarian community.

(With inputs from agencies.)