In a press conference held in Bhopal, Indian Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the historic significance of the interim trade deal between India and the United States, emphasizing that this agreement sends a strong message of India's commitment towards negotiations rather than concessions. He assured that there would be no negative impact on farmers' interests and stated that no agricultural products that could harm Indian farmers would be included in the deal. This commitment aims to reassure the agricultural community about the safety and viability of their livelihoods.

Chouhan specifically noted that the deal would not permit the entry of genetically modified (GM) agricultural products into India, which he described as a critical decision for maintaining the integrity of Indian agriculture. He argued that protecting the purity of soil, seeds, and farming practices is of utmost importance in maintaining sustainable agriculture. This legislative stance reflects broader apprehensions among stakeholders regarding the potential risks associated with GM crops.

The minister reiterated that all sensitive agricultural products, such as soybean, corn, rice, wheat, sugar, pulses, and dairy goods, will be completely excluded from the trade deal, ensuring that traditional farming practices and local agro-economies are preserved. By safeguarding these sectors, the Indian government aims to foster confidence among farmers and agricultural communities, enabling them to thrive without the threat of external competition undermining their efforts.