India-US Trade Deal Must Be on Equal Terms to Protect Farmers
The proposed India-US trade deal has sparked intense debate, with experts emphasizing that every clause must be thoroughly discussed to safeguard vital national interests. The United States views India as a vast market for its agricultural products, but this should not come at the expense of India's small and marginal farmers. The deal must be negotiated on an equal footing as sovereign nations, rejecting any "my way or the highway" approaches that have previously sidelined US allies like the European Union.
Farm Distress Could Derail India's Economic Growth
One critical concern is the potential impact on India's agricultural sector. It is noted that India imposes zero tax on American exports while paying an 18% tax on US imports. Indian basmati rice, produced in Punjab and Haryana and considered the best variety globally, is exported to the US and other countries. In contrast, cheap American agricultural products are often dumped in India, threatening local farmers. If farmers face distress, it could significantly affect India's growth rate, as agriculture is the backbone of the economy. Farmers' suffering directly impacts rural consumption, reduces industrial demand, and slows overall GDP growth, making it essential to protect the farming sector for public good.
Moving Beyond Protectionism in Agriculture
Some argue that agriculture has been overly protected for too long, shielded by non-tariff barriers and propped up by massive input subsidies. State-led procurement and distribution systems have encouraged the cultivation of wheat and paddy, leading to lagging productivity and declining farm incomes for most farmers, except large ones. To address this, the farm sector needs to diversify towards high-value cash crops with export potential. This requires the right incentives and a gradual opening up to international markets, rather than endless protectionism. The issue of reforming agriculture often raises concerns about higher subsidies in developed economies and cheap imports in developing nations, but a balanced approach is necessary.
Water Management Crisis in Haryana
Separately, a water crisis in Haryana is highlighted as largely man-made. Water-intensive crops like wheat, rice, and vegetables dominate fields, while leaking water channels, poor field management, and disregard for scientific practices waste natural resources. Mismanagement of surface water is equally worrisome, with monsoon runoff causing floods instead of being harvested for water-deficit areas. Faulty water-harvesting schemes and clogged drains exacerbate the problem, creating a paradox of floods in the north and scarcity in the south. Implementing a comprehensive water management plan is crucial to prevent further groundwater stress.
Railway Delays and Institutional Dedication
Other issues include train delays, where punctuality remains a basic commandment for public transport. For millions of passengers, delays are a routine expectation, and modernization should focus on the everyday experience of average passengers rather than premium trains or cosmetic upgrades. Consistency in timing is essential for Indian Railways to truly serve as the nation's lifeline. On a positive note, the dedication of individuals can spur institutional excellence, as seen in the rejuvenation of the library at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie by librarian Prem Singh, showcasing how one person can revolutionize an institution with a well-stocked and automated library.
