New Delhi: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has firmly asserted that the recently concluded India-US trade agreement fully safeguards the interests of the nation's agricultural sector, especially the farm and dairy sectors. Addressing the media on Wednesday in New Delhi, Chouhan emphasized that the trade deal, achieved under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, establishes a new benchmark for diplomacy, development, and dignity, with farmers' interests being a non-negotiable priority.

Chouhan dismissed concerns raised by the opposition, affirming that the agreement is unequivocally in the best interest of Indian farmers and will unlock new export opportunities. He reiterated that India's staple grains, fruits, major crops, millets, and dairy products remain completely secure and face no threat under the deal. He stressed that the interests of both small and large farmers have been fully protected, and the agreement is poised to create fresh opportunities rather than risks for Indian agriculture.

The Minister addressed apprehensions regarding the potential impact on small farmers, who constitute a significant portion of the population dependent on agriculture. He assured that no sudden or disruptive influx of foreign products would occur in the Indian market. He clarified that no market segment has been opened in a manner that could harm Indian farmers, with all major crops, food grains, fruits, and dairy products remaining shielded.

Chouhan also addressed concerns arising from a recent statement regarding increased access for American farm products, clarifying that the facts had already been addressed in Parliament. He reiterated that India has not opened its markets in any way that puts pressure on domestic farmers, and protections for key agricultural commodities remain intact.

Highlighting the potential benefits of the agreement, Chouhan pointed to increased export opportunities for Indian products like rice, spices, and textiles. He noted that India already exports rice to several countries, including the United States, with recent exports reaching approximately ₹63,000 crore. He stated that reduced tariffs would directly benefit these exports, and growth in textile exports would, in turn, benefit millions of cotton-growing farmers.

While the Indian government officials are confident about the deal, global commodity markets are facing downward price pressures in 2026 due to oversupply and economic slowdowns, potentially challenging economic viability for Indian farmers despite tariff reductions.

Under the proposed framework, India is expected to purchase goods worth approximately $500 billion from the U.S. over the next five years, primarily in energy, technology, aviation and data-center infrastructure.

A joint statement on the trade deal is expected soon, with a formal signing anticipated by March.