Gandhinagar — Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday dismissed claims by the Indian National Congress that India’s recent trade agreements with the United States and the European Union would negatively affect farmers, asserting that agriculture, dairy, and fisheries sectors have been fully safeguarded in all agreements.
Speaking at an event in Gandhinagar after inaugurating the country’s first Central Bank Digital Currency-based Public Distribution System, Shah accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of misleading farmers regarding the impact of free trade agreements.
Shah stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured the protection of farmers, livestock owners, and fishermen during trade negotiations with global partners.
Highlighting government initiatives in the agriculture sector, Shah said the Union agriculture budget had increased significantly compared to the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He also claimed that procurement of foodgrains at Minimum Support Price had risen sharply over the past decade.
The Home Minister added that direct financial assistance is being provided to farmers through government schemes, reducing their reliance on loans.
Addressing concerns over the dairy industry, Shah maintained that trade agreements had strengthened rather than weakened the sector, reiterating that complete safeguards had been ensured.
He further challenged Rahul Gandhi to a public debate on the issue, stating that a representative from the Bharatiya Janata Party, including leaders from its youth wing, would be ready to participate.
Shah’s remarks come amid recent global trade developments, including the announcement of a trade agreement following discussions between PM Modi and US President Donald Trump. Additionally, India and the European Union recently concluded negotiations on a free trade agreement.
With inputs from IANS