The key issue

India's approval to import animal feeds — specifically dried distillers' grains (DDGs) and red sorghum — has sparked criticism from agricultural organizations concerned about genetically modified products.

Farm groups object to importing DDGs primarily sourced from GM American corn. As stated by representatives: "We strongly oppose the import of GM food and feed products from the US" — particularly soybean oil and DDGs.

Government response

The government argues that processing eliminates genetic modification traces. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated the agreement explicitly prohibits GM food imports into India.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized farmer protections, asserting "all our crops are safe" under the trade agreement.

Farmer concerns

• DDGs and red sorghum imports could harm income for millions of farmers
• Soybean oil imports may negatively impact domestic soybean growers
• Language about removing "non-tariff barriers" raises questions about future GM crop restrictions