India–US Trade Deal Protects Farmers, Dairy Sector Fully Secure: Chouhan

Highlighting the economic upside of the agreement, Chouhan said India already exports rice to several countries, including the United States, with recent exports valued at around ₹63,000 crore.

Amid opposition allegations over the India–US Trade Deal, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday firmly rejected claims that the agreement compromises Indian agriculture, asserting that farmers' interests are fully safeguarded, with no threat to staple crops or the dairy sector.

Addressing the media in Delhi, the Minister said the agreement reflects a new benchmark of diplomacy, development and dignity under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who made it clear from the outset that farmers' interests are non-negotiable.

"India's staple grains, fruits, major crops, millets and dairy products are completely secure. There is absolutely no threat," Chouhan said, adding that the deal creates new opportunities, not risks, for both small and large farmers.

No Threat to Small Farmers or Domestic Markets

Responding to concerns that over half of India's population depends on agriculture and that small farmers could be affected, the Minister categorically stated that no sudden or disruptive entry of foreign agricultural products will occur in the Indian market.

"No market segment has been opened in a manner that can harm Indian farmers. Our major crops, food grains, fruits and dairy products remain fully protected," he said.

Addressing confusion sparked by a recent social media post by the US Treasury Secretary on increased access for American farm products, Chouhan pointed out that Commerce Minister Shri Piyush Goyal has already clarified the facts in Parliament.

"India has not opened its markets in any way that puts pressure on domestic farmers. All safeguards remain intact," he reiterated.

Export Gains for Rice, Spices and Textiles

Highlighting the economic upside of the agreement, Chouhan said India already exports rice to several countries, including the United States, with recent exports valued at around ₹63,000 crore.

He noted that reduced tariffs under the deal will directly benefit rice, spices and textile exports, creating fresh growth opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

"Expansion in textile exports will benefit millions of cotton-growing farmers. This agreement is unequivocally in the interest of Indian farmers," the Minister said.

Parliament to Be Briefed on Deal Details

Responding to opposition demands for a parliamentary explanation, Chouhan said that all details of the trade deal will be shared in due course, while reiterating that the central principle remains unchanged.

"The interests of Indian farmers are fully protected. That is non-negotiable," he said.

"Farmers Are Our Annadata"

Emphasising the need for clear communication to prevent misinformation and fear among farmers, Chouhan said the government remains firmly committed to their welfare.

"Farmers are our Annadata, the providers of life. Serving them is equivalent to worship. Their welfare is the nation's welfare, and their interests are absolutely secure," he said.

The Minister reaffirmed that the Modi government will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with farmers, ensuring that trade, growth and diplomacy advance without compromising India's agricultural backbone.