India-US Trade Deal Framework Agreed with Tariff Cuts and Sector Safeguards

India and the United States have reached a framework for a bilateral trade deal, with the US agreeing to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. The Indian government, led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, asserts that sensitive sectors like agriculture, dairy, and fertilizers are fully protected. The deal includes commitments on energy trade, with India diversifying its oil sources amid US calls to reduce Russian imports. Opposition parties and farmer groups express concerns over potential impacts on Indian farmers and demand full disclosure of deal details. Negotiations continue, with a joint statement expected soon and a formal agreement targeted by mid-March.