Union Minister Piyush Goyal has assured that India will not compromise on the interests of its agriculture and dairy sectors in the recently announced trade deal with the United States. Addressing concerns over the pact, Goyal emphasised that farmers’ interests remain fully protected and sensitive sectors will not be diluted.
“The deal will open major opportunities for labour-intensive industries such as textiles, apparel, leather and gems and jewellery, while giving India access to advanced technology and innovation,” he added. Goyal described the agreement as one that will make every Indian proud without hurting domestic producers.
Farmers’ interests protected
Goyal said, “Both sides will want to move forward while keeping their respective economies in mind and safeguarding their own interests. India has been successful in protecting the interests of its agriculture and dairy sectors.”
He further stressed that “India’s sensitivities in the fertilizer and agriculture sectors have been fully taken into account.”
The minister also underlined the government’s focus on energy security, saying, “I want to make it clear that ensuring the energy security needs of 140 crore Indians is the government’s top priority. In line with the changing international scenario, we are diversifying our energy sources with this objective in mind.”
According to Goyal, the new trade deal will create avenues for Indian industries to expand while safeguarding domestic interests. He highlighted opportunities for labour-intensive sectors and the potential for collaboration in technology and innovation as key benefits of the agreement.
