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The India–US trade deal represents a successful diplomatic achievement that creates economic development while maintaining international respect, according to Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

He explained that the agreement took extensive time to finalise as it needed to safeguard all the specific rights that belong to Indian farmers.

The government ensured that agricultural operations and farmer activities would receive complete protection from the agreement, says Chouhan.

The agreement established a new tariff rate, which now stands at 18 per cent for Indian goods entering the United States.

The US government announced that the agreement would enable increased agricultural exports into India. Chouhan said that India has kept its markets closed to protect its local farmers.

The complete agricultural protection extends to all major sectors, including food grains, fruits, millets, and dairy products.

"This trade deal is a new example of diplomacy, development, and dignity. We believe in balanced and strong dialogue, not conflict. The interests of the farmers have been fully protected. Farmers' interests are completely secure. Our main grains, fruits, major crops, and millets are all safe. Dairy products are safe," Chouhan told ANI.

Chouhan further explained that the trade agreement will increase India's export capacity. He stated that US markets will see improved competition from Indian products as the tarrifs has been decreased.

This development will create advantages for farmers. He explained that an increase in textile exports will result in higher cotton demand, which will directly benefit cotton farmers.

Chouhan provided an explicit statement that small and marginal farmers will receive protection through his assurances.

He stated that the agreement protected both the interests of farmers and the needs of the nation. He reached the conclusion that no decision would endanger the safety of Indian farmers.

Chouhan responded to the US Treasury Secretary's statement about increasing American agricultural exports to India by explaining that India maintains restrictions on its agricultural market access.

He said Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had already explained the full situation in Parliament. Chouhan repeated that farmers from all size categories, together with their total agricultural output, receive protection.

India and the US completed their major trade agreement negotiations, according to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who spoke before Parliament.

He said both countries will now complete technical formalities and paperwork to unlock the full potential of the deal. Goyal described the agreement as an important step in strengthening India–US relations and supporting India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

He also noted that the 18 per cent tariff rate is lower than those faced by many competing countries, giving India a stronger position in global trade.

With inputs from the agency.