Punjab BJP Leader Invites Farmers to Discuss India-US Trade Agreement

On February 11, 2026, Sunil Jakhar, the President of the BJP in Punjab, extended an invitation to farmer groups to have discussions about a new trade agreement between India and the United States. He emphasized that if farmers believe there are problems with the deal, they should speak openly and try to solve them through dialogue instead of protesting. Jakhar explained that the agreement is not harmful to farmers in Punjab. He said it could help businesses and trade develop, creating new jobs for young people in the state. He assured farmers that crops grown traditionally in Punjab, like wheat, paddy, maize, and sugarcane, are excluded from the trade deal. This means these crops will not be affected by the new arrangements. He urged farmer organizations to clearly state if they see any negative impacts of the trade deal on Punjab’s farmers. Jakhar promised that their concerns will be listened to and addressed through discussion. Furthermore, Jakhar asked farmers to focus on creating and implementing a proper agricultural policy for Punjab. He said this policy, which farmers have been demanding for the past year, is still not in place. Instead of protesting, he suggested farmers should work on this policy. Jakhar also spoke about issues facing the state beyond trade. He condemned the worsening law and order situation and the problem of drug abuse. He pointed out that protests should be about these real problems, not about opposing the trade deal. The BJP leader praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts to strengthen India’s position globally. He said Modi has been successful in safeguarding India’s interests while working to make the country great. Jakhar expressed concern about a recent incident where two migrant workers were shot at by unidentified gunmen in Moga district. He urged the government to take strong action against such divisive acts. He highlighted that migrant workers play a vital role in Punjab’s industry and agriculture, and their contributions should not be overlooked. Throughout his statements, Jakhar emphasized that from his point of view as a farmer, there is nothing in the trade agreement that is harmful or anti-Punjab. He wanted farmers to press for the implementation of the agricultural policy they have long been seeking. He also made a comparison, noting that while the U.S. president speaks about making America great again, the Indian Prime Minister should be appreciated for his efforts to make India strong and protect national interests through the trade deal. Jakhar clarified that the main goal of the trade agreement is to allow Indian industry and trade better access to the vast US market, which is valued at about 30 trillion dollars. This access could lead to new employment opportunities for young people in Punjab and across India. In conclusion, Jakhar’s message was that farmers and other stakeholders should come together, discuss their concerns openly, and work on constructive solutions. He stressed the importance of focusing on real issues like law and order and the welfare of migrant workers. His call for dialogue aims to prevent unnecessary protests and promote a better understanding of the trade agreement’s potential benefits and drawbacks.