Calls for Bilateral Trade Agreements to Safeguard Farmers and Small Entrepreneurs
The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) has urged the Indian government to focus on bilateral trade agreements rather than multilateral trade deals while negotiating with the United States. The organization emphasized the importance of protecting national interests, particularly those of farmers and small entrepreneurs, amid changing global trade policies.
At a national council meeting in Chhattisgarh, the RSS-affiliated group passed a resolution advocating for a strategic approach to foreign trade. The two-day meeting, which concluded in Raipur, discussed India’s economic challenges and the impact of U.S. trade policies under the administration of Donald Trump.
SJM Flags Concerns Over Trump’s Reciprocal Tariff Policies
The SJM’s resolution pointed out that after Donald Trump assumed office as U.S. President, his administration launched a “frontal attack” on the global free trade system by imposing reciprocal tariffs on imports from multiple countries.
The move, according to the SJM, is aimed at bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. and addressing its domestic unemployment issues. However, the organization stressed that India should take a cautious approach while engaging in trade talks with Washington.
“The national council of Swadeshi Jagran Manch strongly suggests that Bharat should enhance its foreign trade with bilateral trade agreements rather than multilateral trade agreements,” the resolution stated.
Need for Protection of Farmers and Small Businesses in Trade Deals
The SJM highlighted the vulnerability of Indian farmers and small entrepreneurs, who often struggle to compete in international markets due to aggressive trade policies from developed nations.
It called on the government to ensure that any trade agreement with the U.S. or other countries safeguards these sectors.
“While entering into bilateral trade agreements with the U.S. and other countries, national interests should be protected, especially the interests of our farmers and small entrepreneurs,” the resolution emphasized.
The SJM has consistently advocated for economic self-reliance and opposed trade policies that could undermine India’s domestic industries. The latest resolution reinforces its stance on “Swadeshi economics,” promoting Indian businesses and rural industries over foreign competition.
India’s Trade Challenges Amid Geopolitical Shifts
The SJM’s recommendations come at a time when India is reassessing its global trade strategy amidst changing geopolitical equations and economic pressures.
- The U.S.-India trade relationship has witnessed tariff tensions, with Washington demanding greater market access for American products.
- India has also imposed counter-tariffs on American goods in response to U.S. tariff hikes on steel and aluminum.
- The Trump administration’s “America First” policy has made it more challenging for emerging economies like India to negotiate favorable trade terms.
Given these factors, SJM’s push for bilateral agreements aligns with India’s broader economic vision of self-reliance and strategic trade partnerships.
The organization’s resolution is expected to add pressure on policymakers to prioritize domestic interests in future trade negotiations, ensuring that key sectors such as agriculture and small-scale industries remain protected from adverse global market forces.
