Union Minister Piyush Goyal assures India will protect agriculture, dairy, and fertiliser sectors in the new US trade deal, while opening opportunities for textiles, leather, gems, and technology, balancing domestic interests with global economic cooperation.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday told Parliament that ensuring energy security for the Indian people is the government’s “top priority,” as lawmakers debated the recently announced trade deal with the United States. His remarks came amid opposition concern about the impact of the pact on sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the budget session, Goyal said the government’s foremost duty is to make sure India’s energy needs are met for its population of 140 crore people. “I want to make it clear that ensuring the energy security needs of 140 crore Indians is the government’s top priority,” he told members of Parliament. “In line with the changing international scenario, we are diversifying our energy sources with this objective in mind.”
Goyal highlighted that the country is working with global partners to secure reliable energy supplies, underscoring the importance of diversification in the face of shifting global dynamics. He also pointed to opportunities in sectors like nuclear and aviation, where cooperation with partners such as the United States could enhance India’s energy infrastructure.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal Ji (@PiyushGoyal ) dismantles Congress’ FAKE NEWS in Parliament—
‘India has ensured full protection of sensitive sectors, particularly agriculture and dairy, while finalising the Indo-US trade agreement after year-long negotiations.’… pic.twitter.com/VujBdm0qRX
— Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी)🇮🇳 (@pradip103) February 4, 2026
Trade deal debate in Parliament
Lawmakers also discussed the broader India‑US trade agreement, which was announced earlier this week after months of negotiations. Under the deal, reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods are being reduced, and India insists its agriculture and dairy interests have been protected. Goyal reiterated that sensitive sectors were fully taken into account in discussions, amid objections from opposition MPs.
Opposition members continued to raise questions about potential effects on farmers, manufacturing and energy policy, demanding greater clarity on how India will manage its trade relations while safeguarding domestic industries.
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