TradeDeal – Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday dismissed allegations made by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi regarding the recently announced interim trade framework between India and the United States, calling the remarks unfounded and misleading.

Minister Responds to Opposition’s Allegations

In a video message shared on social media platform X, Goyal accused Gandhi of spreading incorrect information about the trade understanding and attempting to create confusion among farmers. He said the criticism of the agreement lacked factual basis and was aimed at stirring apprehension within the agricultural community.

Goyal maintained that the opposition leader’s statements misrepresented the details of the pact and failed to acknowledge safeguards built into the arrangement. He asserted that the government had acted responsibly and in the larger national interest while shaping the trade framework.

Government Emphasises Protection for Farmers

The Commerce Minister stressed that the interests of India’s farming community had been a central consideration during discussions with Washington. According to him, essential agricultural commodities such as wheat, millets, soy products, corn and spices have been adequately protected under the terms of the agreement.

He reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently placed farmers at the forefront of policy decisions. Referring to several initiatives introduced in recent years, Goyal said these measures have improved access to markets, enhanced financial support and strengthened rural infrastructure, contributing to higher incomes for cultivators across the country.

The minister added that no decision affecting agriculture would be taken without ensuring safeguards for domestic producers. He described the agreement as balanced and aligned with long-term national priorities.

Export Opportunities in Focus

Highlighting the potential benefits of the trade framework, Goyal pointed to expanded market access for several Indian products. He said items such as Basmati rice, fruits, spices, tea and marine goods are expected to witness stronger demand in the United States.

The agreement, he noted, also creates new prospects for cotton textile exports. By widening export avenues, the government believes the deal could translate into improved earnings for farmers and allied sectors.

Goyal argued that rising exports typically lead to greater demand for farm produce, which in turn can support better price realisation at the domestic level. He maintained that the trade arrangement was designed to generate economic momentum without compromising local interests.

Political Exchange Intensifies

The exchange between the two leaders comes amid heightened political debate over trade policy and agricultural reforms. Rahul Gandhi had questioned whether the agreement would expose Indian farmers to unfair competition and potentially undermine their livelihoods.

Responding to these concerns, Goyal said such apprehensions were misplaced. He accused the opposition of using selective interpretations of the pact to create uncertainty among rural communities.

Without naming specific remarks, the minister stated that public discourse should be guided by verified information rather than speculation. He added that attempts to portray the deal as detrimental to farmers were inconsistent with its actual provisions.

Assurance of Long-Term Safeguards

Reaffirming the government’s stance, Goyal assured farmers that their interests remain fully protected. He said the administration would continue to monitor trade outcomes and make adjustments if necessary to ensure stability in the agricultural sector.

According to the minister, the objective of the interim India-US trade framework is to expand opportunities for Indian producers while strengthening bilateral economic ties. He emphasised that the agreement seeks to balance domestic priorities with global engagement.

The broader trade dialogue between New Delhi and Washington has been positioned as a step toward deeper economic cooperation. While political differences over its implications persist, the government maintains that the pact has been structured to benefit farmers, exporters and consumers alike.