Rahul Gandhi's 5 Questions on India-US Trade Deal Over Farmers
Rahul Gandhi's 5 Questions on India-US Trade Deal Over Farmers
Rahul Gandhi questions the India-US trade deal's impact on farmers; Amit Shah counters, saying safeguards are in place.
Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi posted five questions on social media, arguing that the India-US trade deal could betray Indian farmers. He asked what importing Distillers Dried Grains (DDG) means for Indian dairy, and whether DDG from GM American corn could feed Indian cattle, potentially making dairy products dependent on the US agricultural industry. He also questioned GM soy oil imports and how soy farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and across the country would cope with potential price shocks.
He raised concerns about other products and whether this would signal pressure to open pulses and additional crops to US imports over time. He sought information on the removal of non-trade barriers, and asked whether India would be pressured in the future to loosen its stance on GM crops, procurement, or MSPs and bonuses. He warned that the door could be prevented or gradually opened further each year.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded by saying the Centre has fully safeguarded the country's agriculture and dairy sectors in the trade deal, and dismissed Gandhi’s allegations as ‘laughable’ and as spreading lies. He asserted that farmers' interests, procurement, and MSPs are protected in the agreement.
The exchange underscores a broader debate about India’s trade deals with major partners and the potential implications for farming, price stability, and market access. The discussion is closely watched by voters in Rae Bareli, Gandhi’s constituency, where concerns about livelihoods and agricultural policy loom large as negotiations continue.
Overall, the clash highlights the high-stakes political diplomacy behind trade agreements and the ongoing fear among farmers about how new market access could reshape prices and everyday living.
