At Punjab Rally, Chouhan Says No US Trade Pact If It Hurts Farmers
Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured Punjab farmers that India will not sign any trade deal with the US that harms their interests, and attacked the AAP government.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan used a political gathering at the historic Rakhar Punia fair in Baba Bakala Sahib to address a key concern for Punjab's farming community: the proposed India-US trade agreement.
Speaking at the BJP's own political stage at the fair, Chouhan said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that India will not enter into any trade agreement with the US or any other country if it is detrimental to the interests of Indian farmers. He noted that no final deal with the US currently exists, but assured that any future agreement would safeguard farmers' interests.
The minister's remarks come at a time when the BJP is looking to strengthen its connect with the farming community ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.
Chouhan also used the platform to attack the Aam Aadmi Party government in the state. He said he had written to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann regarding the implementation of a crop insurance scheme, but alleged it has not been implemented. He accused the state government of failing to address farmers' concerns and claimed that central funds for schemes like MGNREGA were being misused.
He further criticised the Punjab government on law and order, women's safety, gangsterism, and drugs. Referring to Raksha Bandhan, he questioned whether women in Punjab felt safe amid rising crime.
Highlighting the Centre's 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative, Chouhan said around three crore women have benefited so far, with a target of six crore. He promised that Punjab's women would be included in the programme and that families in kutcha houses would get permanent homes.
Taking a swipe at the Congress, he mocked its internal divisions. On a potential alliance with the Shiromani Akali Dal, Chouhan said the party's organisational leadership has indicated all possibilities will be considered.
Chouhan stressed that Punjab's agricultural future depends on crop diversification, more processing, and increased exports. He appealed directly to voters, saying, "You have tried everyone, now give BJP a chance," and reiterated the party's resolve to form the next government in the state.