look news india
New Delhi. Voices of protest have now intensified over the historic trade agreement between India and America. Leading farmer organizations like Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) have announced to launch a nationwide movement, terming this deal as ‘dangerous’ for Indian farming. Farmer organizations allege that this agreement is like ‘mortgaging’ the Indian agriculture and dairy sector to American multinational companies.
Farmers, who are vocal about their demands, have also given their full support to the nationwide general strike called by the central trade unions on 12th February.
‘Surrender of agriculture’: Serious allegations of farmer organizations
Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) issued a strong statement saying that the government has surrendered to American corporates through this agreement. The organizations claim that the government had earlier assured that the agriculture and dairy sector would not be made a part of any free trade agreement (FTA), but the current deal is the exact opposite of this promise.
Demand for resignation of Piyush Goyal: Farmer leaders have demanded the resignation of Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, saying that this deal will break the backs of farmers.
Movement warning: SKM has made it clear that if this agreement is formally signed, then once again a big movement like Delhi Border can be seen in the country.
Difference between government claims and reality: Jagjit Singh Dallewal
Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has raised questions on the intentions of the government. He said, “The Commerce Minister is publicly saying that the agriculture sector is safe, but the India-US joint statement is telling a different story.” According to Dallewal, India has agreed to remove non-tariff barriers on American agricultural products, due to which foreign grains will flood the Indian markets.
Crisis looms on dairy and animal husbandry!
All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) leader Krishna Prasad has expressed concern over the specifics of the agreement. According to him:
Cheap Import: Under the deal, import of products like dry distillers grains, red sorghum (animal feed) and soybean oil may be allowed.
Harm to dairy: The arrival of American dairy products will have a negative impact on the income of crores of milk producers in the country.
Market Equilibrium: If American agricultural products are available in the Indian market at low prices, it will be impossible for local farmers to get the right price (MSP) for their produce.
Preparation for nationwide demonstration on 12th February
Farmer organizations have prepared a strategy. United Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) will soon call a big meeting and decide the outline of the movement. The organizations have called for a strike on February 12 to send a message to the government that farmers will not compromise with their land and market.