India, April 5 -- The Centre should ensure that the proposed bilateral trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington DC is "honourable, balanced, and reflective of India's core interests," particularly those concerning the agriculture, livestock, and textile sectors, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma said on Saturday.

Addressing a press conference at the All India Congress Committee headquarters in Delhi, Sharma emphasised the need for a "measured and strategic response" to the recent tariff hike imposed by the United States, calling for broad political consensus and stakeholder involvement in shaping India's position.

"We hope the government will put in place the strategy for its response. However, there should be a national conse...