The upcoming nationwide protest on August 10, 2026, organized by the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), is a crucial step toward addressing the pressing issues faced by farmers and workers in India. The demonstration aims to highlight concerns such as declining farmgate prices, escalating cultivation costs, inadequate crop insurance, land acquisition disputes, fertilizer shortages, and perceived shortcomings in farm loan waiver schemes. These challenges have been exacerbated by policies that many believe favor corporate interests over the welfare of the agricultural and labor sectors.
The AIKS's apprehension regarding the proposed India-US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) underscores the potential risks to domestic agriculture. The agreement could lead to increased imports of cheaper agricultural products, undermining local farmers' livelihoods and compromising food security. By organizing this protest, the AIKS and CITU are not only voicing their concerns but also advocating for policies that prioritize the interests of farmers and workers over corporate gains.
The CITU's campaign against the new labor codes is also a significant aspect of this movement. These codes are perceived to dilute workers' rights and protections, potentially leading to job insecurity and reduced benefits. By opposing these codes, the CITU is striving to ensure that labor reforms do not come at the expense of workers' well-being.
In light of previous large-scale protests in 2025 and 2024, which saw millions participating in strikes against "anti-worker" policies, the August 10 protest is expected to draw substantial participation. This widespread mobilization sends a strong message