In November 2019, the PM was all ready to take India into the RCEP trade agreement that would have grievously hurt Indian farmers and dairy producers, the Congress leader claimed.Only sustained pressure by the Congress and farmers’ organisations forced Modi to change his mind at the very last minute, he said.”Now bruised and battered by the Trump onslaught, Mr.Modi is trying to portray himself as the great champion of Indian farmers. Nobody is fooled,” he added.Trump’s doubling of tariffs comes at a time when India and the US are discussing a bilateral trade deal.The deal has been stuck over the US demand for greater access to India’s agriculture and dairy market.The US wants reduced tariffs on products like corn, soybeans, apples, almonds and ethanol, as well as increased access for US dairy products.New Delhi is, however, resisting these demands as these will have a direct bearing on farmers.”For us, the interests of farmers are the top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen,” Modi said at a global conference to mark the birth centenary of late agri-scientist M S Swaminathan.”I know that I will personally have to pay a heavy price. But I am ready for it,” he said.
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