Farmers Call Nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12 Over US Trade Deal
Farmer unions have announced a nationwide Bharat Bandh on February 12, warning that a proposed US India trade deal could harm domestic agriculture and dairy sectors across the country.
- Farmers announce Bharat Bandh on February 12.
- US India trade deal sparks farmer protest nationwide.
- Farmer unions warn of risks to agriculture sector.
Farmer organisations have announced a nationwide shutdown on February 12 to protest against the proposed US India trade deal, warning that it could severely impact Indian agriculture and dairy farmers. The call for Bharat Bandh has been given by All India Kisan Sabha and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, who say the agreement threatens rural livelihoods.
According to farmer leaders, the trade deal may reduce import duties for multinational corporations, allowing foreign agricultural and dairy products to flood Indian markets. They argue this could weaken local producers, lower farm incomes and give overseas companies greater control over domestic food systems.
Union representatives have expressed concern that small and marginal farmers will bear the brunt of the policy changes, while large foreign firms benefit from relaxed trade norms. They claim the agreement could disrupt existing market protections and undermine self reliance in agriculture.
As part of the Bharat Bandh, farmer groups have called on cultivators, farm workers and labour unions across states to participate in protests and demonstrations. Leaders said the shutdown is intended to send a strong message to the government and demand a reconsideration of policies they believe are against farmers interests.
