Farmers' Welfare Takes Center Stage: PM Modi Reassures Amid FTA Talks with U.S.
In the backdrop of ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations with the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent out a strong and heartfelt message on Thursday, putting the spotlight squarely on the interests of Indian farmers. Speaking at the inauguration of the M.S. Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, the Prime Minister made it clear that the welfare of farmers, dairy producers, and fishermen would not be compromised—no matter the stakes.
“For us, the welfare of our farmers is of the highest priority,” said PM Modi. “Bharat will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, dairy farmers, and fishermen. And I am fully aware that I may have to pay a very heavy price personally, but I am prepared for it. For the farmers of my country, Bharat stands ready today.”
These comments come amid rising concerns that the proposed trade deal with the U.S. might open up Indian markets to American agricultural products, potentially putting local producers at a disadvantage. The U.S. is reportedly pushing for greater access to India’s agricultural and dairy sectors, including exports of items such as almonds, apples, corn, and soybean.
Farmers' groups in India, particularly the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM)—a coalition of various farmers’ unions—have raised serious concerns. They’ve demanded that all details of the FTA negotiations be made public and debated in Parliament before any final agreement is signed. Their apprehension stems from fears that foreign imports could undercut local produce, threatening livelihoods that are already on the edge.
Modi’s remarks appear to be a direct response to these concerns. He reiterated his government’s long-standing commitment to improving agricultural productivity and rural incomes. “Indian agriculture has achieved remarkable milestones. I am sure that wherever Dr. Swaminathan is, he must be proud of the progress we've made,” the Prime Minister said, referencing the legendary agricultural scientist often credited as the father of India’s Green Revolution.
Modi highlighted that India now ranks first globally in the production of milk, pulses, and jute. It is second in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables. The country is also the second-largest producer of fish worldwide. He further noted that India recorded its highest-ever food grain production last year, along with record highs in oilseed crops such as soybean, mustard, and groundnut.
The government, he emphasized, is focused on increasing farmers’ incomes not just by boosting yields, but also by reducing input costs and diversifying sources of revenue. This includes efforts to improve infrastructure, expand market access, and promote innovation in agriculture.
Another key highlight of the event was the presentation of the first-ever M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace. The honor was awarded to Nigerian scientist Prof. Ademola A. Adenle for his outstanding work in agricultural biotechnology. PM Modi praised Adenle’s achievements, stating, “If there is a crisis of food, then there is a crisis of life. And when the lives of lakhs are at risk, global unrest naturally follows. This is why the M.S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace is of utmost importance.”
Prof. Adenle was recognized for leading Africa’s most comprehensive study on genetically modified (GM) crops—a three-year field study engaging over 300 stakeholders. His efforts resulted in the creation of the ‘Fibre-Feed-Food (F3)’ framework, which has helped reform agricultural policies in over 30 countries. His work not only addressed the complex bioethical challenges of GM agriculture but also helped build public trust in scientific innovation.
As India navigates delicate trade discussions on the global stage, the Prime Minister’s message was unambiguous: farmers are not bargaining chips. Instead, they remain at the heart of the nation’s development narrative—guarded, valued, and celebrated.
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