Shivraj Singh Chouhan claimed the farmers’ interest in the Modi government is paramount.
Photo Credit: PIB
New Delhi, February 17, 2026: Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday firmly dismissed speculation surrounding the India-US trade agreement, asserting that farmers’ interests will never be compromised under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
Addressing the media in Jaipur, Chouhan said he was stating with full responsibility that no agreement has harmed Indian farmers.
He categorically ruled out any concessions on sensitive crops such as wheat, rice, and maize, stating that India, now the world’s largest rice producer after surpassing China, would not allow imports that damage domestic agriculture.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan mentioned that apples are mainly imported from Turkey and Iran:
Clarifying concerns over apples, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India requires around 5.5 lakh metric tons annually, which are currently imported mainly from Turkey and Iran.
He explained that even if 1 lakh metric tons were imported from the US under a quota system, with a duty of Rs 25 per kg and an import price of around 80 per kg, it would not adversely impact Indian apple growers.
On Soybeans and corn, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said no concessions have been granted.
He recalled that during the Congress regime, agricultural imports had crossed $ 20 billion, including dairy products.
The minister reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued clear instructions that no dairy products, including milk, ghee, curd, or cheese, will be allowed to be imported into India under any circumstances, ensuring protection for the country’s dairy farmers.
Speaking on cotton, Chouhan said limited imports are unavoidable due to industrial demand exceeding domestic production.
Textile exports benefit India:
He noted that such imports are essential to keep the textile industry running, generate employment, and boost exports.
India’s textile exports currently stand at around Rs 4 lakh crore, with a target of Rs 1 lakh crore growth, which could eventually expand to Rs 45 lakh crore-directly benefiting farmers and the rural economy.
He further announced that there would be no imports of Indian spices, including Rajasthan’s cumin, fenugreek, and phyllium.
Instead, the government has secured zero-duty export access for these spices to markets such as the US, ensuring higher returns for farmers.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, Prime Minister Modi had made two promises: India will never bow down, and farmers’ interests will always come first.
EOM.
