Farmers to hold nationwide protests over India-US trade deal on Feb 12
The Indian farming community is once again gearing up for a massive nationwide protest, this time against the recently announced India-US trade deal. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), and several other farmers’ organizations have joined forces to stage protests across the country on February 12, expressing their strong opposition to the interim trade agreement.
According to the SKM, the India-US trade deal is a “total surrender” of India’s agriculture and farmers to American multinational corporations (MNCs). The organization has been vocal about its concerns, stating that the agreement will have far-reaching and devastating consequences for the Indian agricultural sector. The SKM has also demanded the resignation of Union Minister Piyush Goyal, who has been at the forefront of negotiating the trade deal with the US.
The India-US trade deal, which was announced recently, aims to boost bilateral trade between the two countries. However, the farmers’ organizations are unhappy with the terms of the agreement, which they claim will benefit American corporations at the expense of Indian farmers. The deal is expected to increase imports of American agricultural products, such as almonds, apples, and soybeans, which will directly compete with Indian produce.
The SKM and other farmers’ organizations are concerned that the increased imports will lead to a decline in prices for Indian farmers, making it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods. They are also worried about the impact of the deal on India’s food security, as the country will become increasingly dependent on imports to meet its food needs.
The nationwide protests on February 12 will be a culmination of the farmers’ organizations’ efforts to raise awareness about the potential dangers of the India-US trade deal. The protests will be held in various cities and towns across the country, with farmers, agricultural workers, and other supporters expected to participate in large numbers.
The SKM has called upon all farmers’ organizations, trade unions, and civil society groups to join the protests and express their solidarity with the Indian farming community. The organization has also appealed to the general public to support the cause and participate in the protests.
The India-US trade deal has been a topic of controversy for some time now, with many experts and stakeholders expressing concerns about its impact on the Indian economy and society. The deal is expected to have far-reaching consequences for various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services.
The farmers’ organizations are not alone in their opposition to the deal. Many politicians, including those from opposition parties, have also expressed their concerns about the agreement. They have accused the government of negotiating a deal that benefits American corporations at the expense of Indian interests.
The protests on February 12 will be an important test of the government’s resolve to push through the trade deal, despite the opposition from the farmers’ organizations and other stakeholders. The government will have to balance its commitment to boosting bilateral trade with the US with the need to protect the interests of Indian farmers and the broader economy.
In conclusion, the nationwide protests on February 12 will be an important milestone in the farmers’ organizations’ efforts to oppose the India-US trade deal. The protests will highlight the concerns and anxieties of the Indian farming community and will put pressure on the government to reconsider the terms of the agreement. As the country prepares for the protests, one thing is clear: the India-US trade deal is a highly contentious issue that will have far-reaching consequences for the Indian economy and society.
The farmers’ organizations are determined to fight for their rights and protect their interests, and the protests on February 12 will be an important step in this direction. The government will have to take the concerns of the farmers’ organizations seriously and engage in a meaningful dialogue to address their concerns.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the protests and the demands of the farmers’ organizations. One thing is certain, however: the India-US trade deal will be a major issue in the coming days and weeks, and its impact will be felt across the country.
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