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13 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
EconomyInternational RelationsPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Rahul Gandhi Vows Support for Farmers Amid Trade Deal Controversy

Rahul Gandhi criticizes the government's trade deal, pledging to stand with farmers.

Rahul Gandhi stated he would continue to support farmers, even if the government files cases or moves a Privilege Motion against him. He accused Prime Minister Modi of being "anti-farmer" and "selling" the country through the India-U.S. interim trade deal.

Gandhi alleged the Prime Minister was under a "chokehold" with his "reins" in the hands of U.S. President Donald Trump. He criticized the trade deal for potentially harming farmers' livelihoods and weakening the country's food security, claiming it opened the agriculture market to foreign powers and figures like Adani and Ambani.

Key Facts

1.

Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Modi of being "anti-farmer."

2.

Gandhi alleged Modi is "selling" the country through the India-U.S. interim trade deal.

3.

Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister is under a "chokehold" with his "reins" in the hands of U.S. President Donald Trump.

4.

Gandhi criticized the trade deal for potentially harming farmers' livelihoods and weakening the country's food security.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 3 (Economy): Agricultural trade, government policies, impact of trade deals

2.

GS Paper 2 (Polity): Role of political parties, government accountability

3.

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical questions on agricultural policy

Visual Insights

Key Concerns Highlighted by Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi's statements raise concerns about the impact of the India-U.S. trade deal on farmers and food security.

Allegation: PM Modi 'selling' the country
India-U.S. Trade Deal

Implications for domestic agriculture and food security are being questioned.

Accusation: PM Modi under 'chokehold'
U.S. President Donald Trump

Concerns about undue influence on trade negotiations.

More Information

Background

The debate surrounding trade deals and their impact on farmers is not new. Historically, agricultural policies in India have aimed to protect farmers from market volatility and ensure food security. The Green Revolution in the 1960s and 70s, while increasing food production, also led to debates about its impact on small farmers and the environment. Over time, India's trade policies have evolved, with increasing emphasis on liberalization and integration with the global economy. This shift has been influenced by international agreements like those under the World Trade Organization (WTO), which promote free trade. However, concerns remain about the potential impact of these agreements on vulnerable sectors like agriculture. Several laws and policies govern agricultural trade in India. The Essential Commodities Act, for example, aims to ensure the availability of essential commodities, including food grains, at fair prices. The government also uses measures like Minimum Support Prices (MSP) to protect farmers from price fluctuations. These policies are often debated in the context of trade deals and their potential impact on domestic agriculture.

Latest Developments

Recent years have seen increased focus on agricultural reforms in India. The government has introduced measures aimed at improving market access for farmers and promoting private investment in agriculture. These reforms have sparked debates about their potential impact on small farmers and the role of government in agriculture. The ongoing discussions about trade deals and their impact on agriculture involve various stakeholders, including farmers' organizations, industry groups, and government agencies. Farmers' organizations often express concerns about the potential impact of trade deals on their livelihoods and demand greater protection for domestic agriculture. Institutions like NITI Aayog play a role in analyzing the potential impact of trade deals and recommending policy measures. Looking ahead, the future of agricultural trade in India will likely depend on the government's ability to balance the need for economic growth with the need to protect the interests of farmers. This will require careful consideration of the potential impact of trade deals on domestic agriculture and the implementation of appropriate policy measures to mitigate any negative effects.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Essential Commodities Act: 1. It aims to ensure the availability of essential commodities at fair prices. 2. It empowers the government to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of certain commodities. 3. The Act was first enacted in 1955. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three statements are correct. The Essential Commodities Act aims to ensure the availability of essential commodities at fair prices. It empowers the government to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of certain commodities. The Act was indeed first enacted in 1955 to control prices and ensure availability of essential commodities.

2. Which of the following is NOT a stated concern regarding the India-U.S. interim trade deal mentioned by Rahul Gandhi?

  • A.Potential harm to farmers' livelihoods
  • B.Weakening of the country's food security
  • C.Opening the agriculture market to foreign powers
  • D.Increased investment in the manufacturing sector
Show Answer

Answer: D

Rahul Gandhi criticized the trade deal for potentially harming farmers' livelihoods, weakening the country's food security, and opening the agriculture market to foreign powers. He did not mention increased investment in the manufacturing sector as a concern related to the trade deal.

3. The Green Revolution in India is most closely associated with which of the following?

  • A.Promotion of organic farming
  • B.Increased agricultural productivity through high-yielding varieties
  • C.Focus on traditional farming methods
  • D.Development of irrigation infrastructure only
Show Answer

Answer: B

The Green Revolution in India is most closely associated with increased agricultural productivity through the introduction of high-yielding varieties of seeds, along with the use of fertilizers and irrigation. While irrigation infrastructure was important, the key aspect was the high-yielding varieties.

Source Articles

Government can file FIR or move Privilege Motion, I will stand with farmers: Rahul Gandhi on criticism of U.S. trade deal - The Hindu

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Nishikant Dubey moves Substantive Motion against Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha - The Hindu

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What is a Substantive Motion, under which BJP MP is seeking Rahul Gandhi’s disqualification - The Hindu

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Preamble row: Congress moves privilege motion against Dharmendra Pradhan - The Hindu

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BJP MP Nishikant Dubey moves privilege motion against Shashi Tharoor - The Hindu

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