Farmers' Fury Erupts Over India-US Trade Agreement Terms
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), a coalition of numerous farmer unions across India, has launched a scathing attack on the recently announced India-US trade deal, expressing grave concerns about its potential impact on the agricultural sector. The organization has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of capitulating to American pressure, warning that the agreement could devastate local farming communities.
Zero Tariff Provisions Spark Outrage
In a strongly worded official statement, the SKM condemned what it described as a "betrayal of the people, especially farmers" by the current administration. The core of their objection centers on provisions that reportedly allow zero percent import tariffs on American goods, which farmers fear will lead to a flood of cheap US agricultural products in Indian markets.
The farmers' body specifically highlighted that this move represents a "surrender to the pressure of US imperialism", arguing that it contradicts earlier assurances from the government about protecting domestic agricultural interests. They pointed to Prime Minister Modi's Independence Day address in 2025, where he pledged to "personally pay a heavy price to safeguard farmers' interests" from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
Organized Resistance and Protest Plans
In response to these perceived threats, the SKM has announced a nationwide strike scheduled for February 12, which will involve mass demonstrations and protests across various states. The organization aims to mobilize farmers and supporters to voice their opposition to the agricultural clauses within the trade agreement.
The SKM statement further alleged that the government is now "bowing down to the diktats of US President Donald Trump" by eliminating import taxes that would otherwise protect Indian farmers from foreign competition. They emphasized that this represents a historic betrayal that the farming community will not easily forgive.
Broader Implications for Indian Agriculture
Agricultural experts and economists are closely monitoring the situation, as the trade deal's fine print could have far-reaching consequences for India's farming sector. Key concerns include:
- Potential market saturation with subsidized American agricultural products
- Threats to price stability for domestic crops
- Long-term impacts on farmer livelihoods and rural economies
- Questions about food security and self-sufficiency goals
The SKM has vowed to continue its resistance until the government addresses their concerns, setting the stage for significant political and economic discussions in the coming weeks. As details of the trade agreement emerge, farmers across the country await clarity on how their interests will be protected in this new economic arrangement with the United States.
