Piyush Goyal Rebuts Rahul Gandhi’s Criticism Of India–US Trade Agreement

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday firmly countered Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s criticism of the India–US trade agreement. He accused Rahul Gandhi of promoting what he described as a ‘stage-managed’ narrative.

Piyush Goyal termed the narrative ‘artificial’ and intended to mislead farmers and create unnecessary concern over economic policies.

Taking to X, Union Minister Piyush Goyal released a video message challenging Gandhi’s claims. He alleged that the Congress leader relied on what he termed a contrived interaction involving party activists posing as representatives of farmers.

Farzi Rahul Gandhi… pic.twitter.com/lMMWhj7kKm

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) February 13, 2026

According to Goyal, the conversation was ‘baseless’ and aimed at spreading confusion among the country’s annadatas.

The Union Minister asserted that the agreement with the United States safeguards the interests of Indian farmers in every respect. He emphasised that he was placing this assurance on record with complete responsibility.

Goyal further stated that the trade pact is designed to support farmers. He said it also creates opportunities for fishermen, young professionals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and emerging startups. He maintained that the agreement strengthens multiple sectors of the economy while protecting agricultural stakeholders.

In his remarks, Goyal accused Rahul Gandhi of repeatedly advancing what he characterised as unfounded allegations and fabricated claims. He argued that such statements risk undermining public trust and misrepresenting the substance of the trade arrangement.

The minister’s response also follows Rahul Gandhi’s assertion that the interim India–US trade deal represents a betrayal of India’s farming community.

Gandhi claimed that the agreement could adversely affect farmers’ livelihoods and accused the government of compromising their interests.

The exchange marks the latest political confrontation over the trade deal, with both sides presenting sharply contrasting interpretations of its impact.

The government maintains that the pact protects domestic interests and promotes economic growth. The opposition continues to question its long-term implications for Indian agriculture.

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