Farmers urge centre to shield agriculture as India-US trade talks gain momentum

New Delhi: India and the United States have begun a fresh round of discussions aimed at finalising an interim trade agreement, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer leading the negotiations. The two-day talks are expected to focus on expanding bilateral trade, but concerns are growing among Indian farmer organisations over potential concessions in the agriculture sector. The United States has reiterated its demand for greater access to the Indian market for American products, including agricultural commodities. In a statement shared on social media, the US Embassy in India said Washington remains committed to achieving a "fair and reciprocal" trade agreement that creates opportunities for American exporters while benefiting both countries. Farmers Fear Impact on Domestic Agriculture Although the Indian government has assured stakeholders that sensitive agricultural sectors will remain protected, several farmer organisations have expressed apprehension over the direction of the negotiations. Farmer leaders point out that the India-US trade framework announced earlier this year identified agriculture as a key area for deeper market integration. They fear that any reduction in import duties on American farm products could adversely affect Indian producers, particularly small and marginal farmers. Concerns Over Subsidised US Farm Products In a...