Farmers Mobilize for Major Protest Against India-US Trade Deal

Farmers from Punjab and other states are mobilizing for a major protest in Delhi against the proposed India-US trade agreement. Scheduled for July 21 at Kisan Ghat, this Mahapanchayat aims to address concerns over the deal's negative impact on local agriculture and livelihoods. Organizers claim participation from around 550 farmer unions and social organizations. Leaders warn of escalating protests if their demands are not met, emphasizing the need for immediate government intervention to protect farmers' interests. This gathering marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for agricultural rights in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 21, 2026, 09:05 IST

Increased Activity at Shambhu Border

The Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana is witnessing heightened activity once again. In anticipation of farmers heading to a national 'Mahapanchayat' in Delhi, authorities have decided to close the border. Large cement slabs have been placed on the roads as part of stringent security measures. This significant gathering is organized under the banner of the 'Desh Bachao Morcha' and will take place at the historic Kisan Ghat in Delhi. Organizers claim that around 550 farmers and social organizations from across the country will participate in this protest.

Mahapanchayat Scheduled at Kisan Ghat

This development comes as a large group of farmers from Punjab set off for Delhi on Sunday to participate in the Mahapanchayat scheduled for July 21, aimed at opposing the proposed India-US trade agreement. The event, called by the 'Desh Bachao Morcha', is expected to draw participation from approximately 550 farmer unions and social organizations nationwide.

Demands of the Farmers

Germanjeet Singh Bandala, a leader of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee Punjab, expressed concerns that the proposed trade agreement would adversely affect Indian farmers, laborers, small traders, and the general public. He asserted that the deal primarily benefits American companies and farmers while neglecting the interests of small and marginal farmers in India.

Plans for Peaceful Assembly

Bandala further stated that farmers from Punjab, along with participants from various other states, will join the Mahapanchayat on July 21. He warned that if authorities prevent protesters from reaching the venue, they will hold a peaceful assembly at the location where they are stopped, continuing to raise awareness about their concerns.

Escalation of Protests if Demands Are Ignored

Describing the protest as merely the beginning, Bandala cautioned that if the central government does not cancel the proposed India-US trade agreement and address the farmers' demands, the movement will intensify. He emphasized that farmer organizations will persist in their protests until their requests are met.

Participation from Multiple States

Sarwan Singh Pandher, a leader of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, mentioned that farmers from several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, will converge in the national capital for the rally organized under the 'Desh Bachao Morcha'. He highlighted that allowing the import of cheap agricultural products under the India-US trade deal would negatively impact farmers, agricultural laborers, livestock owners, small traders, and the agricultural economy of the country.

Call for Cancellation of Trade Deal

Pandher claimed that the proposed agreement would not be limited to a few items but could encompass agriculture, dairy, industry, digital trade, e-commerce, government procurement, intellectual property rights, and the service sector. Farmers are demanding immediate intervention from the government to cancel the proposed trade deal and protect the interests of farmers and the general populace. They are urging for the immediate termination of the India-US Free Trade Agreement to safeguard the interests of the country's farmers and citizens. Various farmer organizations in Punjab have been protesting against the proposed trade deal, even organizing motorcycle marches in opposition.