Farmers Intensify Opposition to U.S. Free Trade Agreement

Swift Summary:

• The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) held a general body meeting in New Delhi on July 20, 2025, to discuss concerns regarding a proposed India-U.S. trade agreement.
• In a statement, the SKM warned the Union government against proceeding with the free trade agreement (FTA), fearing negative impacts on farmers and rural sectors.
• Nationwide protests have been planned against this agreement,with August 13 designated as ‘corporations Quit India Day.’
• SKM has expressed apprehension that the FTA could open up India’s agriculture, dairy, and food markets to multinational corporations and imports of Genetically Modified foods.
• As part of their protest plans, effigies of U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be burned during rallies involving tractor parades and motor vehicle demonstrations.
• The statement also congratulated union leaders for the success of a July 9 general strike against neo-liberal economic policies.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The concerns expressed by SKM highlight long-standing tensions between India’s agricultural sector and shifts toward liberalized trade agreements. Farmers fear that FTAs may allow foreign competition to undermine domestic industries reliant on protections like tariffs or subsidies. Importation of Genetically Modified products could particularly exacerbate anxieties tied to food security and self-reliance.

While nationwide protests signify strong grassroots opposition among rural communities, these events showcase challenges policymakers face in reconciling global trade commitments with domestic interests. Balancing integrative economic deals without sidelining vulnerable sectors will be crucial for ensuring equitable outcomes from such agreements.

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