Farmers organized a Maha Panchayat at Delhi’s Kisan Ghat opposing the India-US trade deal and related FTA. Authorities sealed Delhi, Jalandhar, and Jammu National Highways to restrict marches. Heavy police deployment at Shambhu border blocked farmers attempting to enter Delhi. Leaders from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and other states joined the protest, along with several social organizations opposing the trade deal.
Trade Deal Concerns and Impact on Farmers
Farmers criticized the interim agreement signed by India with the United States, claiming it threatens domestic agriculture. They argued cheap subsidized American products would flood Indian markets, decreasing crop prices and farmer income. Farmers demanded cancellation of the trade deal to protect smallholders and local food production capacity.
Tariff Reductions and Dairy Sector Implications
AIKS National President Dr. Ashok Dhawale highlighted the drastic tariff cuts on American agriculture and dairy imports. Tariffs ranging 35%-150% were reduced to zero, eliminating additional import taxes, which, he claims, disadvantages Indian small-scale farmers compared to US and EU subsidies. Farmers argued this policy prioritizes foreign corporate interests over domestic livelihoods.
Protests Escalate Amid Government Security Measures
Last month, the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha led demonstrations against the trade deal, burning PM Modi and Donald Trump effigies. Farmers repeatedly emphasized that mismanagement in exams and low governmental support intensifies dissatisfaction, urging accountability.
