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The Indian side and the US are engaging in a full-day round of trade talks, raising expectations that paused discussions on a mutual agreement may soon resume.

A team led by a senior US commerce official is presently in New Delhi to discuss with representatives from India's trade ministry.

India stated that the session does not signal the beginning of a new phase of talks, describing it instead as an informal discussion aimed at exploring ways to reach a mutual understanding.

Trade negotiations had previously stalled after the US administration imposed significant tariffs on India's goods, partly in reaction to India's purchase of Russian oil and defense hardware. India has defended its stance, referencing national security needs, and called the measures unfair.

These duties, along with strong criticism from US officials, have led to a swift decline in ties between the two longtime allies.

India is a major exporter of goods such as garments, seafood, and gems to the US, and the tariffs have already affected domestic production and livelihoods.

As a result, today's discussions are being closely watched by observers and stakeholders alike.

As stated by a senior Indian official, the session is intended to explore options for achieving a mutual agreement and is not officially part of the scheduled talk phases.

A previous session of negotiations was called off last period following the duty announcement and India's decision to halt purchasing Russia's crude.

However, in recent days, hopes have risen as American officials have taken a more conciliatory tone, and India has reiterated that discussions are still proceeding.

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

This same official had previously been critical of India's position, but recent statements suggest a change in approach.

Additionally, a online interaction between the US and Indian heads of state last week signaled positive sentiment regarding ongoing negotiations.

The US president stated that the two nations were continuing to resolve bilateral barriers, and the Indian prime minister echoed the optimism, calling the two countries close friends.

A nominee for the position of US envoy to India also shared optimism, saying that the trade deal could be resolved within the coming weeks.

He noted that the two sides were not far apart and were currently negotiating the finer details of the deal.

Still, major differences remain, especially in sectors such as agriculture and dairy.

The US has for years pushed for increased market entry to India's agricultural market, viewing it as a significant potential market.

India, however, has consistently protected its farm sector, highlighting concerns related to self-sufficiency, rural livelihoods, and the interests of millions small farmers.

Recently, a senior US trade secretary criticized India's protective measures, wondering why a nation of over a billion people would not purchase US farm products.

Indian experts, however, have argued that India should not give in to outside pressure to liberalize its farm market, emphasizing the importance of economic self-reliance and nutritional stability.