India–US trade deal: Piyush Goyal categorically denies concessions on US agricultural products – WION

Report on India’s Agricultural Trade Negotiations with the United States and Sustainable Development Goals

Union Commerce Minister’s Statement on Agricultural Concessions

On February 8, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal firmly denied that India has granted any concessions to the United States in the agriculture sector. He emphasized that the Government of India has ensured the protection of farmers’ and producers’ interests, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger, which focuses on ending hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Details of Agricultural Products Protected

Minister Goyal clarified in an interview with ANI that India has not opened its markets or given concessions on a wide range of agricultural products, including but not limited to:

• Meat and poultry
• Genetically Modified (GM) foods and their products
• Soya meal, corn, maize
• Cereals such as rice and wheat
• Millets including jawar, bajra, ragi, and kodo
• Sugar and fruits produced in India such as banana, strawberry, cherries, and citrus fruits
• Pulses like green peas, kabuli chana, moong
• Oilseeds, animal feed, groundnuts, honey, malt and its extracts
• Non-alcoholic beverages, flour and meals, starch, essential oils
• Ethanol for fuel and tobacco

This approach supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by protecting indigenous agricultural products and promoting sustainable production patterns.

Negotiation Framework and Safeguarding Farmers’ Interests

The Minister explained that the agreement involves a series of negotiations covering various subjects, goods, agricultural and non-agricultural products, and services. Both India and the United States have offensive and defensive interests. He reiterated that there is no compromise on agriculture, and India’s sensitivities and farmers’ interests have been safeguarded 100%, which aligns with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by supporting livelihoods in the agricultural sector.

Addressing Political Allegations and Public Engagement

Responding to accusations from opposition parties and farm unions about alleged concessions, Minister Goyal accused certain political elements of misleading farmers and distorting issues to divert attention from the government’s support secured for farmers under the India-US interim trade agreement.

The government has expressed readiness to engage with all stakeholders, including farm organizations, journalists, and experts, to explain the agreement and address concerns. This inclusive approach supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by promoting transparent dialogue and participatory decision-making.

Impact on Indian Agriculture and Trade Tariffs

The Minister highlighted that Indian agriculture will face lower reciprocal tariffs compared to competitors. Additionally, key products such as tea, coffee, spices, coconut, coconut oil, and vegetable wax will continue to enjoy zero tariffs. This tariff structure aims to enhance market access for Indian farmers, contributing to SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by potentially increasing farmers’ incomes and economic opportunities.

Conclusion

The Government of India remains committed to protecting farmers’ interests while engaging in international trade negotiations. The emphasis on safeguarding sensitive agricultural products and promoting sustainable market access aligns with multiple Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing India’s dedication to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article focuses on safeguarding the interests of farmers and agricultural producers in India, which is directly related to ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • By discussing trade agreements and market access for farmers, the article touches upon promoting sustained economic growth and decent work opportunities in the agricultural sector.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The emphasis on protecting sensitive agricultural products and avoiding concessions on GM foods and other items relates to sustainable production practices and responsible trade policies.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The article discusses India-US trade negotiations and interim agreements, highlighting international partnerships and cooperation to achieve development goals.

2. Specific Targets Under Identified SDGs

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.3: By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers, including through secure and equal access to markets.
   • Target 2.4: Ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation, including in agriculture.
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and decent job creation.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
   • Target 12.6: Encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices and integrate sustainability information into their reporting cycle.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.10: Promote a universal, rules-based, open, non-discriminatory, and equitable multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization.
   • Target 17.11: Significantly increase exports of developing countries, including agricultural products.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicators related to SDG 2
   • Indicator 2.3.1: Volume of production per labour unit by classes of farming/pastoral/forestry enterprise size.
   • Indicator 2.3.2: Average income of small-scale food producers, by sex and indigenous status.
2. Indicators related to SDG 8
   • Indicator 8.2.1: Annual growth rate of real GDP per employed person.
   • Indicator 8.3.1: Proportion of informal employment in non-agriculture employment, by sex.
3. Indicators related to SDG 12
   • Indicator 12.2.1: Material footprint, material footprint per capita, and material footprint per GDP.
   • Indicator 12.6.1: Number of companies publishing sustainability reports.
4. Indicators related to SDG 17
   • Indicator 17.10.1: Worldwide weighted tariff averages.
   • Indicator 17.11.1: Developing countries’ exports as a proportion of total exports.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: wionews.com