The concerns stem from the current trade tensions, where the U.S. has reportedly slapped a 50% tariff on Indian exports on both economic and political grounds. In return for a reduction of these tariffs, the U.S. is seeking duty-free access to the Indian market. The NGOs fear that such concessions would be highly detrimental, causing large-scale market disruption for millions of Indian farmers who depend on these sectors for their livelihoods.

Beyond the immediate agricultural impacts, the groups also raised alarm about other systemic issues that may “fly under the radar.” They warned that a trade deal could force India to make changes to its intellectual property (IP) laws, which could facilitate “evergreening” of patents on pharmaceutical products. This would, in turn, destroy India’s crucial generic medicine industry and lead to a sharp increase in healthcare costs for the poor and sick.

The coalition of concerned organizations is urging the Indian government to immediately engage with key stakeholders, including parliamentary committees, state governments, farmers’ unions, and civil society groups. This collaborative approach, they argue, is necessary to ensure that the ongoing free trade agreement negotiations do not compromise India’s long-term economic interests and strategic autonomy in areas such as industrial policy, investment priorities, and digital-sector policies.