India-US Trade Deal- Congress Member of Parliament Manish Tewari on Thursday submitted an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha, requesting a detailed discussion on issues he described as carrying significant public importance. His request centers on the recently discussed India-US trade arrangement and related energy supply understandings, which he believes require transparency and parliamentary scrutiny.
In his formal notice, Tewari highlighted statements attributed to the President of the United States suggesting that India may halt purchases of crude oil from Russia. The reported claims further indicated that India could increase oil imports from the United States and Venezuela as part of broader economic cooperation. Tewari argued that if such commitments were made, they could influence India’s long-term energy planning and supply diversification strategy.
He pointed out that Russian crude imports have played a role in stabilizing fuel prices domestically. According to his submission, any rapid shift in oil procurement patterns could potentially raise operational costs for industries and increase the financial burden on consumers. He stressed that decisions affecting energy security require careful evaluation and open debate within Parliament.
The Congress leader also expressed concern regarding the tariff and non-tariff aspects of the proposed trade understanding. The reported agreement suggests a reduction in tariffs on Indian products entering the American market to 18 percent. In return, Washington is expected to gain improved access for exporting agricultural goods and other commodities to India.
Tewari warned that eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers on American goods, along with a reported commitment to procure products worth over USD 500 billion, could have a substantial impact on domestic industries. He noted that sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and micro, small and medium enterprises may face competitive challenges if protective measures are reduced without adequate safeguards.
The motion emphasized the need for the government to present an official statement clarifying the status of these reported agreements. Tewari stated that decisions involving international trade and energy sourcing should not proceed without legislative discussion. He maintained that transparency would help ensure balanced policymaking while safeguarding national economic interests.
He also underlined the importance of maintaining India’s independent foreign policy stance. According to his notice, major shifts in energy procurement and trade commitments could influence diplomatic relations and economic stability. Tewari urged the government to allow an extensive debate to address these concerns and provide clarity to citizens and stakeholders.
Meanwhile, parliamentary activity continues as both Houses are scheduled to deliberate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address during the ongoing Budget Session. In the Lok Sabha, the motion was introduced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and supported by Member of Parliament Tejasvi Surya. Lawmakers have allocated approximately 18 hours for the discussion.
The Lok Sabha session earlier witnessed disruptions due to protests and slogan chanting by opposition members, leading to an adjournment before the Prime Minister could respond to the debate. The Prime Minister is now expected to address the discussion in the Rajya Sabha as proceedings continue.
The current Budget Session is planned to include 30 sittings spread across 65 days, concluding on April 2. Parliament is scheduled to break for a recess on February 13. During this period, Standing Committees will review the Demands for Grants presented by various ministries and departments. The session will reconvene on March 9 to continue legislative and financial discussions.
Parliamentary debates on trade, energy policy, and economic cooperation remain crucial as India navigates evolving global partnerships and domestic development priorities.
