Farmers from Punjab Mobilize Against Proposed India-US Trade Agreement
A large contingent of farmers from Punjab is heading to Delhi to participate in a protest against the proposed India-US trade agreement scheduled for July 21. Organized by the 'Desh Bachao Morcha', the gathering aims to highlight concerns that the deal will adversely affect Indian farmers and small traders. Leaders argue that the agreement favors American agricultural interests while sidelining local farmers. They warn of significant economic impacts if cheaper US agricultural products enter the Indian market. The protest is expected to draw participation from various states, and organizers vow to continue their movement until their demands are addressed.
Jul 20, 2026, 18:39 IST
Farmers Rally in Delhi to Oppose Trade Deal
A significant group of farmers from Punjab set off for Delhi on Sunday. They plan to participate in a major gathering on July 21 to protest against the proposed India-US trade agreement. This event, organized by the 'Desh Bachao Morcha', will take place at the Kisan Ghat in Delhi. Organizers claim that approximately 550 farmer organizations and social groups from across the nation will attend.
Before departing from Beas, Germanjeet Singh Bandala, a leader of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee Punjab, spoke to reporters, alleging that the proposed trade agreement would negatively impact Indian farmers, laborers, small traders, and the general public. He asserted that the agreement primarily benefits American companies and farmers while neglecting the interests of small and marginal farmers in India.
Concerns Over American Agricultural Practices
Bandala argued that American agriculture operates on a massive scale, with farms spanning thousands of acres and receiving substantial government subsidies. In contrast, he noted that most Indian farmers possess only two to two and a half acres of land and receive minimal financial assistance. He warned that if cheaper agricultural products from the US flood the Indian market, small farmers would struggle to compete, leading to a significant drop in their income.
The farmer leader also criticized previous governments for protecting the agricultural sector from foreign influence, claiming that the current central government is succumbing to US pressure to advance this trade agreement. He emphasized that the implications of this proposed deal would extend beyond agriculture, potentially affecting small businesses and employment opportunities in various sectors.
Upcoming Protest and Future Actions
Bandala mentioned that the July 21 gathering will see participation from farmers not only from Punjab but also from several other states. He warned that if authorities attempt to prevent protesters from reaching the venue, they will hold peaceful assemblies wherever they are stopped and continue to raise awareness about their concerns. Describing this protest as merely the 'beginning', Bandala cautioned that if the central government does not cancel the proposed India-US trade agreement and address farmers' demands, the movement will escalate. He affirmed that farmer organizations will persist in their protests until their demands are met.