New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday emphasized that the India–US trade agreement fully protects the interests of Indian farmers, countering claims from the Opposition that the agriculture sector has been jeopardized. He characterized the deal as a balanced result stemming from diplomacy, development, and national pride, stating that tariff adjustments would enhance export prospects for Indian products while ensuring domestic markets remain shielded.

Chouhan also criticized the Congress party for what he labeled a campaign of misinformation and political discontent concerning the agreement.

Here is the complete interview:

IANS: As the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, what’s your perspective on the India-US trade deal and its impact on the agriculture sector?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi today. Our Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal clearly stated in Parliament yesterday that this trade deal is a prime example of diplomacy, development, and dignity.

While prioritizing India’s interests, significant attention has been directed towards farmers. As Agriculture Minister, I assure you that the interests of Indian farmers are completely safeguarded in this trade agreement. No market has been opened for our major food grains, key fruits, or millets, ensuring our farmers are fully protected.

Moreover, a reduction in tariffs will be advantageous for our farmers, particularly considering the substantial rice exports. Last year, we exported rice worth Rs 63,000 crore, and this figure is expected to rise. The export of rice, spices, and textiles is anticipated to flourish.

The textile sector, notably, plays a vital role in our export arena. An increase in textile exports will benefit cotton producers as well. Overall, this trade deal aligns with the interests of India and the welfare of Indian farmers, ensuring their interests are thoroughly protected.

IANS: The Opposition claims the agriculture sector has been sacrificed in this trade deal. How do you respond?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: The Congress party is a hub of deception, a factory of chaos, and a marketplace of falsehoods. They are attempting to instigate disorder by propagating untruths. Having never secured victories on the ground, their frustration and hopelessness from consecutive defeats are manifesting as bitterness. They fail to see the agricultural landscape; they only see paths to power.

Their behavior is undignified, tearing apart democratic principles. They have turned Parliament into a chaotic scene. It pains me to express this. I have been elected 12 times and have served in the Legislative Assembly and now in the Lok Sabha. It grieves me to witness such behavior in Parliament. Is this how we conduct ourselves?

They are obstructing the Prime Minister from speaking, preventing the Commerce Minister from voicing his opinions too. The comments made yesterday, while sitting on the steps of Parliament and directing remarks at MPs, remind me of immature student politics.

IANS: What is your reaction to Rahul Gandhi calling Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, a member of the Sikh community, a “traitor”?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: This is a manifestation of their frustration. Labeling a leader, a minister whose family has battled terrorism and made the ultimate sacrifice, as a traitor is deeply unfortunate. In opposing the BJP, Rahul Gandhi and the Congress have crossed boundaries, appearing to oppose the nation itself. The public is observing this immature behavior.

Moreover, undermining the dignity of the Prime Minister is unacceptable. The Prime Minister is not merely an individual; he represents a constitutional position, a symbol of national pride and respect. Disparaging remarks against the Prime Minister and Minister Bittu will not go unnoticed by the people, who previously penalized the Congress for insulting the Prime Minister, and they will do so again.

IANS: Before finalizing this trade deal, the Prime Minister mentioned that it might lead to personal political loss. What are your thoughts on this?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: I bow to the Prime Minister, even as a citizen. He vowed that he would not permit the country to bow down, and he has upheld that promise. He promised that the interests of farmers would be entirely protected, even at his own political expense. He has not only safeguarded farmers' interests but also ensured that recent trade agreements, including those with various countries and the European Union, will substantially benefit farmers.

IANS: The manner in which the Prime Minister was prevented from speaking in the House and the reference to an unpublished book raises questions about parliamentary functioning. What are your thoughts?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: I believe that a frustrated and resentful Congress has become ideologically bankrupt, which is why it ends up opposing the nation while attempting to target an individual. The entire country is observing this.

IANS: Post-deal, there are concerns about US products flooding the Indian market. What’s the reality?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan: I reiterate, the interests of India’s farmers are fully protected.