Farmer groups call India–US trade deal a ‘total surrender’, announce nationwide protests on Feb 12

Farmer organisations across India have strongly opposed the India–US trade deal, describing it as a “total surrender” to American interests and a serious threat to domestic agriculture. The outfits claim the agreement compromises farmers’ livelihoods and opens the door for corporate exploitation of the agricultural sector.

Leaders of several farmer groups said the deal would adversely impact small and marginal farmers by exposing them to unfair competition and weakening protections for local produce. They alleged that the agreement prioritises foreign and corporate interests over those of Indian farmers. In response, the farmer outfits have announced nationwide protests on February 12 to press their demands. They are also calling for the resignation of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, holding him responsible for what they describe as an anti-farmer policy decision.

The organisations said the proposed strike and protests are aimed at drawing public attention to the long-term consequences of the trade deal. They warned that unless the agreement is reviewed and farmers’ concerns are addressed, the agitation could intensify in the coming days.