Congress Leader Alleges Indo-US Trade Deal Detrimental to Maharashtra Farmers
Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar has strongly criticized the recently negotiated Indo-US trade agreement, asserting that it will be severely detrimental to the interests of farmers in Maharashtra. In a statement released on February 7, 2026, Wadettiwar claimed that the terms of the deal favor American agricultural exports at the expense of local producers, potentially undermining the livelihoods of countless farming communities across the state.
Criticism of VB-G RAM G Act and Employment Guarantees
Wadettiwar further alleged that the newly-enacted VB-G RAM G Act will have a negative impact on guaranteed employment opportunities in rural areas. He contrasted this with the erstwhile Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which had provided a firm guarantee of 100 days of paid work annually for rural households.
The Congress leader argued that the VB-G RAM G Act lacks similar robust employment assurances, potentially leaving vulnerable populations without the economic safety net that MGNREGA offered. This criticism comes amid ongoing debates about rural development and social welfare policies in India.
Broader Implications for Agricultural Policy
The allegations highlight growing concerns about how international trade agreements might affect domestic agricultural sectors. Maharashtra, being a major agricultural state, could face significant challenges if the trade deal leads to increased competition from imported goods. Wadettiwar's statements reflect broader political tensions surrounding economic policies and their impact on farmers, who form a crucial voting bloc in Indian politics.
As the debate continues, stakeholders are calling for greater transparency in trade negotiations and more protective measures for local industries. The Congress party's position underscores its commitment to advocating for farmer welfare and questioning government policies that it perceives as harmful to rural economies.
