India–US trade deal: open doors with caution, quota shields farmers

In a nuanced take on the recently agreed India–United States trade framework, agriculture economist Ashok Gulati argues that while India has conceded some openings to U.S. agricultural products, the approach is calibrated with quota systems and protective safeguards to prevent a flood of imports that could derail domestic farm livelihoods. Gulati notes that India’s agricultural exports to the U.S. already far exceed imports, and most concessions involve crops that are either not widely grown domestically or have limited cultivation — such as certain tree nuts and berries — which are unlikely to disrupt local farm income substantially. Notably, import duty reductions are expected to be paired with quotas, functioning as tariff-rate protections for sensitive segments.

Addressing major concerns, he highlights that fears around genetically modified (GM) crops entering Indian markets are overblown, as India continues to prohibit direct import of living GM corn or soybean, with only derivatives such as oil and distillers dried grains (DDGs) allowed — products already present in trade flows without documented adverse impacts. Gulati underscores that the trade deal’s agricultural openness does not equate to unbridled market entry; rather, quota systems and calibrated duty reductions aim to deliver access while guarding farmers’ interests.

The broader context shows that sensitive staples like dairy, wheat, rice and maize remain protected under the agreement, with quota mechanisms applied where necessary to limit exposure. While some opposition voices decry the pact as risky for agriculture, Gulati’s analysis suggests cautious engagement rather than wholesale surrender — contingent on the fine print and implementation that unfolds in coming months.

Source : Dairynews7x7 Feb 16th 2026 Read full story here