Nationwide Protests Planned Against India-US Trade Agreement
Various farmer organizations in India are mobilizing for nationwide protests on February 12 to oppose the recently announced India-US trade deal. They claim the agreement undermines local agricultural interests, branding it a “total surrender” to American corporate influence.
The protests will feature demonstrations in rural areas, including the burning of effigies of US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The farmer outfits specifically demand the resignation of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, arguing that the deal is detrimental to the agriculture sector.
Background on the India-US Trade Deal
On February 6, 2026, India and the United States reached an interim trade agreement that aims to lower tariffs between the two nations. However, various stakeholders, particularly farmers, are concerned about the concessions made by India that may expose them to increased competition from US agricultural products.
The Sayunk Kisan Morcha, along with its non-political counterpart and the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), have been vocal in their opposition to the trade framework. Activists argue that it would pave the way for American multinational corporations to dominate the Indian agricultural market.
Concerns from the Farming Community
Impact on Local Agriculture
Farm leaders are highlighting the potential negative ramifications for local farmers. AIKS leader Krishna Prasad stated that the trade agreement will allow an influx of items such as dried distillers’ grains and soybean oil, which could undermine local dairy and farming sectors already contending with low incomes.
Prasad noted that the deal primarily benefits the stagnant agricultural economies of the US and the European Union, rather than the interests of Indian farmers. “These deals are not in India’s favor,” he emphasized during a recent press conference.
Safety of Agricultural Interests
Despite the protests, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has claimed that India’s agricultural priorities are secure. He stated that essential sectors such as grains and dairy remain unaffected by the Free Trade Agreements. Goyal asserted that key red lines established by India had not been crossed in the negotiations.
The minister referred to the agreement as a “balanced approach” that would foster trade without compromising local interests. However, Goyal’s reassurances are met with skepticism by many farmers’ organizations.
Farmers’ Organizations Unite for Action
The farmer organizations are calling for a united front and are appealing to political parties and other labor unions to join their cause. The SKM, stating that Goyal is “betraying” farmers, argues that the proposed deal contradicts the government’s earlier promises to protect local agriculture.
Notably, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal criticized the minister’s public statements regarding the protection of agriculture, citing contradictions with the trade deal’s text, which suggests discussions on lowering non-tariff barriers for U.S. agricultural products.
Upcoming Protests
The protests on February 12 are expected to coincide with a general strike that includes various trade unions opposing the newly implemented labor codes and trade agreements. These events may further amplify calls for policy revisions concerning agricultural and labor issues.
Darshan Pal of the Krantikari Kisan Union noted that protestors intend to make their dissent visible by burning effigies of prominent leaders, symbolizing their deep-seated frustration over government policies perceived as favoring foreign corporations.
Trade Statistics and Market Dynamics
Data shows that India’s imports of American agricultural goods surged by 34 percent year-on-year between January and November 2025, totaling nearly $2.9 billion. This surge includes critical imports such as cotton and soybean oil, which might further increase post-agreement if tariff reductions are enacted.
The elevated import figures underline the ongoing shift in market dynamics as Indian consumers increasingly turn to American products, prompting fears among local farmers about a loss of market share and income.
Reactions from Industry Experts
Experts have voiced mixed opinions about the impending results of the trade pact. While some express concern that American agricultural products may flood the Indian market, others suggest it could serve as an opportunity for Indian farmers to innovate and compete more effectively.
However, opponents argue that structural inequalities in the market could tilt disadvantageously towards American agribusinesses unless measures are put in place to protect local producers.
Pressing for Parliamentary Debate
Activist Sunilam emphasized the importance of debating the trade deal within Parliament, highlighting the need for wider public discourse on its implications for the agricultural sector. The inclusion of farmers and agricultural experts in these discussions could help illuminate the potential consequences of international trade agreements.
As protests loom, the unity among farmer organizations signals a significant mobilization effort against policies perceived to disadvantage local agriculture in favor of foreign interests.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
As the February 12 protests approach, the atmosphere among farmer organizations is charged with urgency and determination. The forthcoming demonstrations may not only reflect localized discontent but could also signal a broader resistance to trade agreements deemed unfair to Indian farmers.
In the weeks following the protests, it remains essential to monitor the government’s responses and any adjustments made to the trade deal as advocates continue to push for protective measures.