Arvind Kejriwal Accuses PM Modi of Betraying Farmers Over Import Duty on Cotton

Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of betraying farmers by removing an 11% import duty on American cotton. Kejriwal claimed that the decision, made under pressure from the US, would lead to Indian cotton farmers losing a significant amount of money, forcing them to consider drastic measures. He demanded the government reverse the decision and reimpose the duty to protect Indian farmers.

Key Takeaways:

• Arvind Kejriwal accused PM Modi of betraying farmers by removing an 11% import duty on American cotton.
• The decision is expected to make American cotton cheaper in India by Rs 15-20 per kg, potentially harming Indian cotton farmers.
• Kejriwal demanded the government reverse the decision and reimpose the duty to protect Indian farmers.
• The import duty on American cotton was removed for 40 days from August 19 to September 30.
• AAP chief criticized US President Donald Trump, calling him weak in the face of global opposition.
• Kejriwal suggested that India take a tougher stand against Washington and impose a 100% tariff on American goods in response to a 50% tariff imposed by Trump.

Statistics:

• The 11% import duty on American cotton has been removed for 40 days from August 19 to September 30.
• American cotton is expected to be cheaper in India by Rs 15-20 per kg compared to Indian cotton.
• The decision has the potential to harm Indian cotton farmers, with Kejriwal warning of drastic measures.

Sources:

• Arvind Kejriwal, press conference in Delhi (no date mentioned in the source)