Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan today rejected the Congress criticism of the India-U.S. trade deal, saying the agreement fully protects agriculture and farmers’ interests, with key farm products kept out. Addressing a press conference in Bhopal, Chouhan said no product harmful to Indian farmers has been included and asserted that national and farmers’ interests remain paramount.

He accused the Congress, which ruled for years, of failing to link farmers to global markets or ensure economic stability. He said India would not allow genetically modified products and that no tariff concessions were given on a wide range of farm goods, including meat, dairy, grains, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, spices and processed foods.

Mr Chouhan said the deal safeguards farmers’ livelihoods and preserves Indian agriculture, adding that under the Modi government, India is moving rapidly toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy. The Congress has claimed that the agreement benefits the U.S., and it could turn India into a dumping ground for American goods. Rejecting the charge, Chouhan said the Opposition was creating unnecessary fear.