Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has declared that the recently framed India-US trade agreement is designed to protect the interests of Indian farmers, dismissing claims of any unfair bargaining. Speaking to the media in Bhopal on Sunday, February 8, 2026, Chouhan refuted opposition allegations, emphasizing that the deal was reached through constructive dialogue with the United States.

Chouhan stressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi made it clear from the beginning that the interests of farmers were non-negotiable. According to Chouhan, the agreement reflects a commitment to diplomacy, development, and dignity, ensuring that Indian agriculture remains secure.

A key aspect of the agreement, according to Chouhan, is the exclusion of key crops, fruits, dairy products, and spices from American imports. He specifically noted that imports of several spices, including black pepper, cloves, dry green chilies, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, asafoetida, ginger, turmeric, ajwain, fenugreek, and mustard, have been excluded. Furthermore, he stated that no clause in the agreement allows for genetically modified imports or farm concessions, and sensitive products like dairy, meat, and grains are not included. This stance, he said, is a major decision to protect the purity of Indian agriculture, its soil, and its seeds.

The trade deal includes the reduction of tariffs on Indian goods in the US to 18 percent. Previously, tariffs were as high as 50 percent. While Washington anticipates increased exports of agricultural products to India, Chouhan assured that Indian farmers would not be adversely affected. He clarified that no market segment has been opened in a way that could harm Indian farmers and that all major crops, food grains, fruits, and dairy products remain protected.

Chouhan also highlighted the export potential unlocked by the agreement, noting India's existing rice exports, which recently reached approximately ₹63,000 crore. He said that reduced tariffs would directly benefit India's rice, spices, and textile exports, with growth in textile exports benefiting millions of cotton-growing farmers.

Addressing concerns about the impact on small farmers, Chouhan assured that no sudden or disruptive entry of foreign products would occur in the Indian market. He stated that India's agricultural policy remains focused on protecting domestic producers and ensuring the long-term health of the country's soil, seeds, and food systems. When asked about the opposition's demand for the government to explain the details of the trade deal in Parliament, Chouhan reiterated that all details of the agreement would be shared in due course.