Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reiterated that India’s trade agreements fully safeguard the interests of farmers, including those in the dairy sector. He dismissed opposition claims that recent deals would harm domestic producers. Speaking at a public event in Gandhinagar, Shah stated that agriculture, dairy and fisheries remain protected in every trade negotiation. According to him, the government has clearly defined non-negotiable areas, with dairy treated as a sensitive sector.
Importantly, India’s dairy economy is built on smallholder farmers and cooperative institutions. Therefore, exposure to subsidised global imports could destabilise rural incomes. Against this backdrop, Shah stressed that trade liberalisation would not override farmer security. Moreover, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi ensured that national interests remained central during negotiations with the United States and the European Union. As a result, dairy market access commitments were carefully limited.
In addition, Shah highlighted the government’s broader support for agriculture. He noted a sharp rise in budgetary allocations and foodgrain procurement at Minimum Support Prices. These measures, he argued, strengthen income stability rather than relying on temporary relief.
Overall, the government’s stance signals continuity in dairy policy. While India continues to engage with global markets, it remains cautious on sectors that directly affect farmer livelihoods. For the dairy industry, this reassurance reinforces policy stability at a time of increased global trade activity.
