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The Indian side and the United States are holding a extended round of trade discussions, raising expectations that stalled discussions on a mutual deal may shortly continue.

A team headed by a senior US commerce negotiator is presently in New Delhi to confer with officials from India's commerce ministry.

India stated that the meeting does not represent the start of a new phase of talks, characterizing it instead as an exploratory exchange aimed at seeking paths to secure a mutual understanding.

Bilateral discussions had earlier halted after the American administration enforced significant tariffs on India's products, partly in reaction to India's purchase of Russian oil and military equipment. India has justified its stance, referencing domestic security requirements, and called the tariffs disproportionate.

These duties, along with strong criticism from US officials, have led to a rapid decline in relations between the two longtime partners.

India is a significant exporter of goods such as garments, seafood, and gems to the United States, and the tariffs have already affected domestic production and employment.

As a result, Tuesday's discussions are being closely monitored by analysts and stakeholders alike.

As stated by a key Indian official, the meeting is designed to discuss avenues for achieving a mutual deal and is not formally part of the planned talk rounds.

A prior round of talks was canceled last period following the tariff announcement and India's decision to stop buying Russian crude.

However, in the past few days, hopes have increased as US officials have adopted a more flexible tone, and India has confirmed that talks are ongoing.

One American trade adviser commented that India is coming to the negotiating table and expressed optimism about the results.

This same adviser had earlier been vocal of India's policies, but latest statements suggest a shift in approach.

Additionally, a social media interaction between the American and Indian leaders last week reflected optimism regarding continuing negotiations.

The US leader stated that the two nations were working to address trade issues, and the Indian prime minister reciprocated the optimism, referring to the two countries close friends.

A designated for the role of US ambassador to India also expressed confidence, stating that the bilateral deal could be finalized within the coming weeks.

He added that the two parties were not significantly divided and were currently discussing the specific details of the agreement.

Still, key differences remain, especially in areas such as farming and dairy.

The United States has long sought greater market entry to India's agricultural market, viewing it as a major potential market.

India, however, has strongly defended its agricultural industry, highlighting concerns related to food security, rural livelihoods, and the interests of countless small farmers.

Recently, a senior US commerce official criticized India's protective policies, wondering why a country of 1.4 billion people would not import US farm products.

Indian analysts, however, have argued that India should not yield to outside demands to open its agricultural market, emphasizing the importance of national self-reliance and food security.