India-US Trade Deal Sparks Controversy Amid Differing Claims

The announcement of the India-US trade deal by Union minister Piyush Goyal has sparked a heated debate, with Congress accusing the BJP government of making exaggerated claims that conflict with US officials' statements. Concerns have intensified over the possible impacts on Indian farmers.

Goyal, addressing both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, insisted that India's core concerns in agriculture are protected, touting the agreement as a boost to export competitiveness. However, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized the remarks as a 'non-statement' lacking substantive detail.

The government maintains that the accord will benefit the Indian economy, particularly manufacturing sectors. Opposition leaders, however, caution that concessions on agricultural imports might ultimately harm local farmers, urging transparency in negotiations.