Indian Unions and Farmers Stage Nationwide Strike Over Interim US Trade Deal
A broad coalition of major trade unions and farmers' groups in India mounted a significant one-day nationwide strike on Thursday, February 12, 2026, to protest against an interim trade agreement with the United States. The protesters argue that the deal undermines the interests of farmers, small businesses, and workers across the country.
Political Opposition and Public Disruption
In Parliament, lawmakers from opposition political parties demanded that the government scrap the trade deal entirely. They criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the slogan "Narendra Modi, surrender Modi," highlighting the growing political tension. The strike partially disrupted public services and manufacturing activities, showcasing resistance to the reform agenda set by Modi, leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. This action underscores the political risks of pushing market-oriented policies ahead of key state elections scheduled later this year.
Concerns Over Agricultural Impact
Union leaders expressed deep concerns that the trade deal with Washington opens the Indian market to subsidized agricultural products, threatening the livelihoods of millions of small farmers. Amarjeet Kaur, general secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress, a prominent union participating in the strike, stated, "Cheap American farm produce will be dumped in India, making it difficult for our farmers and small businesses to compete." This sentiment reflects widespread fear among agricultural communities about increased competition and potential economic hardship.
Government Defense and Trade Details
The government in New Delhi has defended the interim trade pact as a crucial step toward expanding exports, attracting investments, and strengthening strategic ties with the U.S. Indian Trade Minister Piyush Goyal recently asserted that the interests of farmers in the agriculture and dairy sectors were adequately protected. India and the U.S. announced this month that they are moving closer to a formal trade pact, releasing an interim framework designed to lower tariffs and deepen economic ties.
According to a fact sheet issued by the White House, reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods will decrease from 25% to 18%, while an additional 25% penalty tariff for India's purchase of Russian oil will be dropped. In return, India has committed to stop buying Russian oil and will purchase $500 billion worth of U.S. goods, including energy, while cutting taxes and non-tariff barriers.
Broader Protests Against Labor Reforms
The protesters in India also opposed Modi's efforts to privatize state-run companies and implement new labor codes, labeling these sweeping changes as "deceptive fraud" against workers. Indian officials have countered that these labor reforms are necessary to boost efficiency and create jobs in the long run, arguing that such measures are essential for economic growth and competitiveness.
The nationwide strike highlights the ongoing conflict between the government's push for economic liberalization and the concerns of various sectors of Indian society, setting the stage for continued debate and potential further actions as the trade deal progresses.
