Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the proposed India–US interim trade agreement, alleging that it could severely harm Indian farmers and textile exporters. Addressing the issue through a post on X, Gandhi accused the government of compromising domestic interests in the name of global trade negotiations. He demanded clarity from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the long-term consequences of the agreement.

Gandhi specifically questioned whether the deal would allow large-scale imports of Dried Distillers’ Grains (DDG) derived from genetically modified (GM) American corn. He argued that such imports could indirectly link India’s dairy and cattle sectors to foreign agricultural supply chains. According to him, this raises serious concerns about food sovereignty and the dependence of Indian milk production on US-grown GM crops.

The Congress leader also expressed apprehension about the potential influx of GM soy oil into India. He warned that soy farmers in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan could face another severe price shock if cheaper imports flood the market. Gandhi emphasised that farmers deserve transparency regarding the deal’s clauses and safeguards to prevent adverse price fluctuations.

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Further, Gandhi questioned the terminology used in the agreement, particularly references to “additional products” and “non-trade barriers.” He cautioned that such terms could eventually lead to pressure on India to liberalise GM crop approvals, dilute procurement mechanisms, or reduce Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) and bonus structures. He described the matter as not merely a present concern but one that could shape the future of India’s agricultural independence.

On the textile front, Gandhi criticised what he described as a tariff imbalance, pointing out that Bangladesh reportedly enjoys zero per cent tariffs compared to higher duties faced by Indian exporters. He argued that such disparities could undermine both cotton farmers and textile manufacturers. Calling for a more strategic negotiation approach, Gandhi said a visionary government would have ensured stronger protections for domestic producers while pursuing international trade partnerships.

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