India Safeguards Farmers in UK Free Trade Agreement

India's recent free trade agreement with the UK excludes duty concessions on agricultural commodities, assuaging fears about domestic farmers' welfare. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced Friday that the pact, signed Thursday, ensures farmer interests are safeguarded while boosting agricultural exports.

The deal grants duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports to the UK, strategically omitting key agricultural commodities like potatoes, onions, and pulses that could face adverse import impacts. Commodities such as oilseeds, including soybean and mustard, are similarly protected.

This exclusion means these agri-products won't become cheaper imports from the UK, thus protecting the economic interests of Indian farmers. Chouhan emphasized that the agreement will have a positive impact on the agricultural sector, enhancing the export potential without jeopardizing local farmers.

(With inputs from agencies.)