Info Nuggets

Analysis on “non‑veg milk” — a critical issue in the India–US trade negotiations:

What is “non‑veg milk”?

Why it’s a “red line” for India

• Domestic farmer groups (e.g., ICCFM) demanded exclusion of all agriculture and dairy from the trade deal, citing threats to rural livelihoods.
• SBI forecast warns of Rs 1.03 lakh crore loss and 25 million tonnes in imports if dairy is liberalised.
• US pushback at WTO over dairy certification, calling it unnecessary protectionism.

Relevance for UPSC syllabus

• Highlights cultural geography, beliefs influencing agrarian practices.
• Explains how food system governance intersects with religious-political identities.

• Demonstrates non-tariff measures in trade policy.
• Addresses farmer livelihoods, agrarian distress and protection of cottage industries (dairy cooperatives).

• Illustrates India–US dynamics, trade negotiation strategies and WTO implications.
• Reflects soft power diplomacy, where domestic cultural values shape foreign policy.

• Raises ethical questions: Should trade policy override cultural values?
• Examines inclusive policymaking and balancing national interest with global economic pressures.

UPSC-relevant questions on the “non-veg milk” trade dispute issue

1. What is “non-veg milk” and why is it controversial in India?
2. Briefly explain the cultural and economic reasons behind India’s opposition to dairy imports from the US.
3. How does the concept of “non-tariff barriers” relate to India’s stance on dairy trade?
4. How is lightning connected to nitrogen fixation in the environment?
5. What role does WTO play in resolving trade disputes like the non-veg milk issue?
Long answer questions (GS Mains – 250 words)
6. Examine the impact of allowing dairy imports from non-vegetarian-fed cattle on India’s rural economy and food culture.
7. Discuss how trade policy can balance economic globalisation with cultural and religious sensitivities.
8. Evaluate India’s use of “vegetarian feed certification” as a form of non-tariff barrier. Is it justified under WTO norms?
9. Critically analyse the implications of opening India’s dairy sector to global competition on small and marginal farmers.
10. Explain the role of cultural beliefs in shaping agricultural trade policy using the example of the India-US dairy dispute.
Analytical/essay-type questions (Ethics, essay, IR – 250–400 words)
11. “Global trade agreements must not override local culture and livelihood concerns.” Critically examine with reference to India’s dairy sector.
12. How can India balance its commitments to the global trading system with the cultural sensitivities of its population?
13. Discuss how ethical policymaking should consider food practices, religious values and indigenous livelihoods.
14. Should India relax its dairy import norms under pressure from strategic partners like the US? Analyse the pros and cons in the light of national interest.
15. Evaluate whether cultural norms should serve as a legitimate basis for trade restrictions in a multilateral trading system like WTO.
UPSC answer strategy
1. Intro: Define “non‑veg milk” and its significance.
2. Explain India’s vegetarian feed certification.
3. Analyse economic, cultural, and trade dimensions.
4. Discuss WTO debates and non-tariff barrier implications.
5. Conclude with how this aligns with UPSC themes: governance, farmer protection, trade diplomacy and cultural integrity.
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