Modi stands firm for farmers, fishermen’ after US tariffs, FTA pressure
By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – India Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took a firm stance against the US’ steep tariffs on India, emphasized his commitment to protect the interests of Indian farmers and fishermen from any harmful trade policies.
He said he is standing like a wall against any policy that could harm the country’s farmers or fishermen, taken a firm stance in view of the US imposing a steep 50% tariff on India and the delay in finalization of a bilateral free trade deal.
Modi did not directly refer to US tariffs or the ongoing trade talks with the US during his speech from the Red Fort, but he said, “Bharat ke kisan, machuware, pashupalak se judi kisi bhi ahitkaari neeti ke aage Modi deewar banke khada hai (Modi is standing like a wall in front of any policy against the interest of our farmers, fishermen, cattle rearers of India.”
His remarks on protecting farmers come amid US pressure on the FTA, as Washington seeks concessions in agriculture and dairy sectors.
India-US trade talks reached a stalemate after India refused to grant the United States greater access to its dairy and agricultural markets.
New Delhi maintained that any concessions could harm the interests of Indian farmers, sign its commitment to protecting domestic agriculture amid ongoing trade negotiations.
