In a rare display of solidarity, farmer leaders across India have expressed their gratitude to the Modi government for its unwavering stance in protecting the nation's agricultural interests amidst pressure from the United States regarding trade policies. This appreciation stems from the government's refusal to compromise on agricultural policies, despite the US imposing steep tariffs on Indian exports. The farmer leaders view this as a firm defense of their livelihoods.
The US decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian exports, citing India's continued oil trade with Russia, has strained US-India trade relations. Despite this diplomatic pressure, Prime Minister Modi has declared that he would not compromise on agricultural policies that protect Indian farmers. This firm stance has resonated strongly with the Indian farming community.
At a gathering in New Delhi, farmer organization leaders and cultivators met with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to express their support for the government's actions. Leaders from prominent farmer organizations lauded the government's refusal to allow American companies into India's agriculture and dairy sectors. This decision was described as "historic and farmer-friendly," protecting India's agricultural sector from foreign dominance.
Dharmendra Choudhary, National President of the Indian Farmer Chaudhary Charan Singh Organisation, praised Prime Minister Modi's unwavering statement in the interest of farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen, emphasizing that India will not compromise their interests at any cost. He stated that this announcement not only brings relief to millions of food providers but also strengthens the self-reliance of agriculture and rural India.
Kuldeep Singh Bajidpur from Punjab commended the government for taking steps for farmers' welfare, expressing hope for stronger measures to ensure farmers do not have to rely on countries like the US. Another farmer from Punjab, Kirpa Singh Natthuwala, said that the government's move was a source of pride, ensuring their independence. Virendra Lohan of the Chhattisgarh Youth Progressive Farmers' Association praised the decision as a shield against foreign control, assuring them that no force can enslave India's farmers under this leadership.
Prime Minister Modi has emphasized that the welfare of farmers, livestock rearers, and fisherfolk is a top priority, stating his readiness to pay a personal and political price to safeguard their interests. This commitment has been reinforced by various initiatives aimed at strengthening the rural economy and ensuring dignity for farmers. These initiatives include systemic reforms, technology-driven solutions, and direct benefit transfers, minimizing middlemen and leakages.
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), a coalition of farmer unions, has been among the most vocal supporters of the government's stance. The SKM characterized the US tariff imposition as an economic embargo, emphasizing the unfairness of penalizing Indian farmers for geopolitical decisions beyond their control. They applauded Modi's resolve to shield farmers from foreign pressure, viewing it as a moment where the government placed farmers' interests above international diplomatic expediency. The All India Kisan Sabha and Bharatiya Kisan Union have also voiced their support.
Farmers from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh have also welcomed Prime Minister Modi's firm stance. A farmer from Basti district in Uttar Pradesh commended the government's consistent approach of prioritizing the interests of farmers. Farmers have expressed that the government has always prioritized their interests and that their voices are being heard.
The Prime Minister's strong message is that India is not a country that will buckle under pressure and that no one will dictate who India buys oil or products from, or who it sells to. This clear message has resonated with farmers across the nation, who see it as a defense of their livelihoods and a step towards self-reliance.
