Farmer organisations across India set aside differences to launch a united front against the proposed India-US trade deal, citing threats to agriculture, food security, and rural livelihoods.

Farmer organisations across India are up in arms against the proposed India-US trade deal. They have jointly announced their opposition to the proposed India-US trade deal, setting aside their differences to oppose the agreement. At a meeting of farmer organisations held at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh last week, farmer organisation leaders expressed unity and warned the government of an agitation if their concerns are ignored.

Farm leaders say that under the agreement, the U.S. reduced reciprocal tariffs on a wide range of Indian exports from higher levels (previously escalated) to 18 per cent, covering sectors like textiles, apparel, gems, diamonds, pharmaceuticals, and aircraft parts. In return, India committed to eliminating or substantially reducing tariffs on US industrial goods and various agricultural products, including dried distillers’ grains (DDGs) used for animal feed, red sorghum, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine, and spirits.

While proponents view the deal as a step toward boosting bilateral trade, enhancing market access, and strengthening economic ties amid global uncertainties, critics argue it exposes Indian agriculture to subsidized U.S. imports that could depress domestic prices and undermine local producers.

Historic unity among farmer groups

In a significant show of solidarity, farmer organisations from across India convened at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh on June 25, 2026. More than 100 leaders, transcending usual political and regional divides, participated in the meeting. Prominent figures included Gurnam Singh Charuni, Balbir Singh Rajewal, VM Singh, Sarwan Singh Pandher, Surjit Singh Phool, and Abhimanyu Kohar.

Representatives from key platforms such as SKM (Non-Political), AKMM (Non-Political), Azad Kisan Morcha, Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha Haryana, Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh, and the All India MSP Morcha attended the meeting. Labour and social organisations also joined, underscoring the broader implications beyond just farming communities.

Speakers emphasised that the proposed deal poses a “serious threat” to the interests of farmers, livestock rearers, workers, small traders, and the general public. They resolved to launch a nationwide joint campaign, putting aside differences to fight unitedly for the protection of India’s agriculture, livestock sector, employment, food security, and economic sovereignty.

Key Concerns Driving the Opposition

Farmers fear that opening Indian markets to U.S. agricultural products – many of which benefit from heavy subsidies in the United States – will lead to a flood of cheap imports. This could drive down prices for Indian crops like soybeans, cotton, and feed grains, directly impacting the incomes of millions of small and marginal farmers who already operate on thin margins.

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and other Congress figures, have echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of a “betrayal” of Indian farmers. They argue the deal prioritizes export gains in non-agricultural sectors at the expense of rural economies and food security. Concerns also extend to potential effects on dairy, poultry, and related livestock sectors due to increased competition from U.S. products.

Earlier protests in February 2026, following the initial framework announcement, saw nationwide demonstrations, tractor rallies, and calls for the removal of Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who is leading the trade talks from the Indian side. The current mobilisation builds on that momentum, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction despite government assurances that core staples are protected.

Planned Actions and Future Strategy

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to intensify efforts. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2026, at the same venue in Chandigarh, where five key representatives from each participating organisation will finalise a detailed strategy and action plan.

Organisers plan to invite additional farmers’, labour, and social groups to broaden the platform. A key component will be a nationwide public outreach campaign to educate farmers, workers, youth, traders, and the public about the potential adverse impacts of the deal. Leaders warned that if the government ignores these concerns, a full-scale nationwide agitation will be inevitable.

This unity is notable given the historical fragmentation among Indian farmer groups. Past movements, such as those demanding legal guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP), have shown the power of collective action, but sustaining it across ideological lines remains a challenge.

Government and Broader Economic Context

The Indian government has defended the trade framework, stating it safeguards farmers’ interests while opening opportunities for exports and economic growth. Bilateral trade with the U.S. is significant, and the deal is seen as part of efforts to diversify partnerships and reduce dependencies.

However, critics point to structural asymmetries. Indian agriculture is dominated by small holdings, rain-fed farming, and limited mechanisation compared to the highly industrialized U.S. farm sector. Without adequate safeguards, increased imports could exacerbate distress in rural areas, where agriculture employs a large portion of the population.

The deal also comes against the backdrop of other challenges facing Indian farmers, including climate variability, input costs, and market volatility. Protests in Punjab and other states have linked the trade concerns with issues like fertilizer shortages.

Implications for India’s Agricultural Future

The opposition to the India-US trade deal reflects deeper anxieties about globalization’s impact on India’s agrarian economy. Farmers argue that while trade can bring benefits, it must not come at the cost of self-reliance in food production or the viability of rural livelihoods.

As the July 1 meeting approaches, all eyes will be on whether this unified platform translates into sustained pressure on policymakers. The outcome could influence not only the final shape of the bilateral trade agreement but also the political dynamics around agricultural policy in India.

Experts suggest that any resolution would require transparent consultations with stakeholders, robust safeguard mechanisms (such as tariff rate quotas or anti-dumping measures), and investments in making Indian agriculture more competitive through technology, irrigation, and value addition.