Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition, has raised concerns about the India-US trade pact, demanding direct answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted five key issues regarding the deal’s impact on Indian farmers and the agricultural sector. Gandhi questioned the effects of importing DDG from GM American corn on Indian cattle and the integration of the dairy chain with the US agricultural system.
His queries extended to the implications of allowing imports of GM soya oil on soya farmers across states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. Additionally, he expressed apprehensions about the pressure to open up pulses and other sensitive crops to US imports over time. Gandhi also sought clarity on the removal of ‘non-trade barriers’ and its potential impact on India’s stand on GM crops, procurement practices, and MSP.
Emphasizing the need to protect farmers from adverse consequences, Gandhi warned against the long-term implications of giving another country control over India’s agricultural system. He urged for safeguards to prevent the widening impact of the trade pact on Indian agriculture in the future.
