I trust this missive finds you in the pink of health and high spirits, as one must be when presiding over a nation in such a state of unparalleled prosperity and contentment as is reflected in current wobbly growth, unemployment, currency depreciation and runaway inflation.

It is with the utmost reluctance that I dare to disturb your reverie with a few modest suggestions that might, perchance, enhance the already dazzling brilliance of your socio-economic policies.

Firstly, given that we are on the cusp of the annual Budget, might I propose the radical notion of abolishing personal income tax for the poor and middle class? I am certain that the mere thought of such a measure will have you clutching your pearls in horror, but consider, if you will, the delightful irony of allowing the common folk to retain a modicum of their hard-earned pittance. I know, I know, it sounds crazy. But think of it as a radical social experiment! Let the little people keep a bit of their own money. Who knows, they might spend it on frivolities like food, clothes, and data. Wild idea, right? This, in turn, could spur demand and private investment, thereby possibly creating a veritable utopia of economic activity.

Secondly, one cannot help but marvel at the astronomical prices of fuel, which have undoubtedly contributed to the nation’s coffers in ways too numerous to mention. However, in a moment of uncharacteristic whim, might I suggest a dramatic reduction in fuel prices? Imagine the joy! Suddenly, people will have more cash to burn. It could be like an economic miracle! But hey, what do I know? I’m just a guy with a calculator and a dream.

“What about the farmers?” Ah, yes! The farmers! The backbone of our great nation, and yet, they’re being treated like, well, like a bunch of old socks. Do provide them with minimum support prices, would you? It’s the least one can do to help them stay afloat.

Of course, I would be remiss if I did not caution against certain drastic measures that might, in your boundless wisdom, seem tantalizing, given the past history. For instance, the dollarization of the economy by rendering the rupee redundant might appear to be a masterstroke, but one must consider the potential pitfalls of such a move.

Similarly, slashing public education and health budgets – it’s tempting to keep the populace uneducated and unhealthy to keep them in control. But please refrain.

And selling off public assets to esteemed crony business friends for a song might not be the panacea the nation desires.

Taxing the 200 million stock market investors for their capital losses may be the FM’s way of boosting morale!

Will taxing the wealth of the rich folks fleeing to Dubai, Canada, or Singapore definitely make them stay?

Both are ill-advised moves.

And let us not forget the potential backlash from lashing out at millions of youths complaining about exam paper leaks and delays in government jobs, or imposing a ‘stay at home’ cess on those who work from home or are homemakers. Moves that may rock an already faltering nation.

Criminalising the dissent of farmers protesting for fair prices or causing unchecked ecological havoc through indiscriminate building of roads, bridges, and townships would be appealing but will only deepen the chasm of discontent.

In conclusion, I remain, as ever, your most obedient servant, humbly offering these suggestions in the spirit of constructive criticism and unwavering loyalty. I have no doubt that your unparalleled acumen will guide the nation to even greater heights of prosperity and glory.

Yours most sincerely,

A Humble Voluntary Worker, unemployed by choice

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The post Open Letter to an Imaginary Supreme Leader of a country of billions appeared first on SabrangIndia.

According to farmer union leaders, a chakka jam will be strictly enforced on major roads and railway tracks during the bandh. Both government and private institutions have been urged to remain closed for the day. However, emergency vehicles, including ambulances and those related to weddings or critical situations, will be allowed to pass. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, led by Sarwan Singh Pandher, spearheaded the call for the bandh. They have garnered the backing of diverse groups, including traders, transporters, employee unions, toll plaza workers, labour organisations, ex-servicemen, Sarpanches, teachers’ unions, and other social and professional bodies.

A key aspect of the ongoing protests is the hunger strike by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been fasting for over one month to push for the implementation of 13 critical farm-related demands. Dallewal began his hunger strike on November 26, 2024, despite being hospitalised in Ludhiana due to his deteriorating health. In a show of solidarity, Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande, another prominent farmer leader, has continued the hunger strike on Dallewal’s behalf at the Khanauri protest site. The hunger strike has become a rallying point for the farmers, drawing widespread attention to their cause.

The protests being led by farmers are here to stay as they have also announced plans for a large-scale “Kisan Mahapanchayat” on 4 January 2025, to be held at the Khanauri protest site. Despite freezing temperatures and repeated roadblocks, the farmers remain determined, vowing to continue their fight for justice and reforms in agricultural policies. With the protests now at a critical juncture, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the outcome of their demands. This event aims to bring together farmer leaders and supporters from various states to discuss the ongoing issues and the Union’s inaction. The announcement of the Maha Panchayat comes amidst concerns over Dallewal’s worsening health and the farmers’ determination to escalate their movement.

Impact of the bandh

Farmers associated with SKM (Non-Political) and KMM have been protesting at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, 2024, after their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces. In December pf 2024 itself, a “jatha” of 101 farmers made three attempts to march to the national capital on foot—on December 6, 8, and 14—only to be blocked by security personnel in Haryana each time. Despite these setbacks, the farmers remain steadfast, continuing their sit-ins and road blockades.

Today’s bandh is a continuation of their efforts to highlight long-standing grievances. Security has been tightened across the state, with farmers gathering at key locations, including highways and railway stations, from as early as 6:30 am. Over 150 trains, including the Vande Bharat Express, have been cancelled, and 13 others have been rescheduled. All educational institutions across the state remain closed, while emergency services continue to function. Blockades have been installed at approximately 280 points, bringing road and rail traffic to a standstill in many areas. Farmers also staged dharnas at various locations, including the Muktsar-Kotkapura road near Udekaran village and the Hoshiarpur-Phagwara Bypass, despite the severe cold wave gripping the region. 

Community support and solidarity

Speaking from a special stage set up due to his deteriorating health, Dallewal had addressed the farmers last week, expressing his gratitude for their support and emphasising the need for unity in their fight. “This battle will be won only if the whole country fights unitedly,” he stated in a frail voice. He also appealed to Haryana, Punjab’s “younger brother,” and other states to strengthen the movement. “Either we will win or die, one of two things will happen,” he declared, as farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar assisted him during his speech.

The bandh has received overwhelming support from Punjab residents, with various groups contributing to its success. In Jalandhar’s Bhogpur, farmers organised a langar to provide food for commuters stranded due to disrupted rail services. Medical professionals across the state have also extended their support to the farmers’ movement. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher praised the people of Punjab for their wholehearted participation in the bandh and noted the widespread acceptance of the protest, evidenced by the scale of blockades and public cooperation.

The protest has also attracted political backing, with SAD leader Parvinder Singh Sohana and other party members visiting a protest site in Mohali to express solidarity with the farmers. The farmers’ movement, fuelled by a combination of grassroots mobilisation and community support, continues to gain momentum as the demands for justice and action grow louder.

On Saturday, December 28, renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Ladakh visited Dallewal at the Khanauri protest site to express solidarity. Wangchuk, who himself had undertaken a 16-day fast-unto-death earlier this year to advocate for Ladakh’s administrative concerns, described his visit as a gesture of goodwill and support from the people of Ladakh.

Supreme Court’s criticism of punjab government’s handling of Dallewal’s health

Dallewal, aged 70, has been on an indefinite fast since November 26, 2024, to press for a range of demands crucial to the farming community. These demands include a legal guarantee for the minimum support price (MSP) of crops, which has been one of the central issues fuelling the ongoing farmer protests at various border points between Punjab and Haryana. Dallewal’s fast, which has now entered its 35^th day, is part of a broader movement led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.

The fast by leader Dallewal, and his deteriorating heath, has also drawn the eyes of the Supreme Court, with a special bench being set up on Saturday. On December 28, 2024, the Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Sudhashu Dhulia had sharply criticised the Punjab government for its failure to ensure that farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal received proper medical treatment as his health continued to deteriorate. Justice Surya Kant, addressing the Punjab Chief Secretary during the court proceedings, stated that those resisting Dallewal’s hospitalisation were not his well-wishers. The Supreme Court’s remarks came in the context of a contempt petition filed against the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, accusing them of failing to comply with an earlier order requiring medical assistance for Dallewal and efforts to convince him to seek hospital care.

The Supreme Court had previously issued a directive on December 20, instructing the Punjab government to ensure Dallewal’s medical needs were met, including the option of moving him to a hospital. However, the state authorities expressed difficulty in transferring Dallewal due to resistance from protesting farmers. This delay in complying with the Court’s order has now led to growing concerns, with the Court pushing for a resolution. Justice Kant ordered that if the situation warranted, the Punjab government should seek assistance from the Centre to facilitate Dallewal’s hospitalisation. The Court gave the Punjab government a final deadline of December 31, 2024, to convince Dallewal to accept medical care. A compliance report was due by December 28, and the Chief Secretary and DGP were ordered to be present for the hearing.

The Supreme Court had previously instructed the Punjab government to provide medical aid to Dallewal and ensure that he was moved to a makeshift hospital established near the protest site, located 700 metres from the Khanauri border. However, the Punjab government expressed its inability to move Dallewal due to growing resistance from farmers, some of whom have gathered around him to prevent any intervention. The state representatives claimed they were in a difficult position, as the protesters had mobilised, especially the youth, to block any attempt to hospitalise Dallewal. Despite these obstacles, the Court expressed frustration with the state’s handling of the matter and warned that this could amount to “abetment of suicide.”

The Supreme Court further questioned why the situation had been allowed to escalate to this level, stating that the government’s failure to intervene had put Dallewal’s life in jeopardy. The Bench made it clear that if the Punjab government failed to take action, they might be compelled to use force to shift Dallewal to a hospital, risking further escalation. The Court also suggested that the state could seek help from the Union, if necessary, to avoid a situation where the farmer leader’s health deteriorates further.

Punjab Government’s unsuccessful attempts amidst farmer opposition

The Punjab government’s response to the situation has been complex and fraught with difficulty. An official from the state government had admitted, as per the Indian Express, that attempts to convince Dallewal to end his hunger strike peacefully had been unsuccessful. Dallewal, adamant in his resolve, has refused medical treatment and insists that he will not break his fast until the government agrees to the farmers’ demands, particularly the MSP guarantee and a debt waiver for farmers. The government has tried to approach Dallewal with a “clean slate” to find a solution that would ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s order without triggering violent clashes.

However, there are fears within the Punjab government that using force to admit Dallewal to a hospital could lead to serious consequences, including loss of life. Farmers guarding Dallewal are prepared for the worst, and any use of force could ignite further unrest. As per multiple media reports, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has made it clear that the farmers are willing to face whatever consequences may arise. Pandher warned that if the government used force to remove Dallewal, the farmers would hold the authorities responsible for any bloodshed. He also urged the youth from surrounding areas to mobilise at the Khanauri border to prevent the police from taking action during the night.

The situation has placed the Punjab government in a difficult position, as it must balance the Supreme Court’s directive with the escalating protests at the Khanauri border. The government is trying to find a way to comply with the Court’s orders while avoiding a forceful confrontation. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who had been out of the country, returned to India recently and reportedly held discussions with senior officials, including the DGP and Chief Secretary, to devise a strategy to resolve the issue.

Despite the government’s efforts to mediate, the farmers remain steadfast in their demands, which include a legal guarantee for MSP, debt waivers, and justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Punjab unit) has condemned the indifference shown by both the state and central governments, calling for immediate intervention as Dallewal’s health continues to worsen.

Additionally, in a bid to intensify pressure on the Union government to address their demands and concerns over Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s health, protesting farmers’ leaders are planning to request a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu during the first week of January. Additionally, a rally is set to take place in Moga, Punjab, on January 9, where various farmer-related issues will be raised.

Dallewal denies being held hostage amid health crisis

It is essential to note that as remarks made by the Supreme Court hit the news, a video message was released on December 28, wherein Dallewal had directly addressed the claims made in the Supreme Court regarding his alleged confinement during his hunger strike. He rejected the notion that he was being held hostage, questioning, “I am sitting on a fast. Who gave this report to the Supreme Court, and who spread this misconception that I have been kept hostage? Where did such a thing come from?” As per the report of the Hindustan Times, the veteran leader, who has refused medical treatment during his fast, emphasised that his decision to continue the hunger strike was based on his own convictions and the critical issues affecting farmers in India, particularly their debt burden. He stated firmly, “Seven lakh farmers in this country have committed suicide due to debt. Saving farmers is necessary, therefore, I am sitting here. I am not under anyone’s pressure.”

Dallewal’s rejection of these claims underscores the level of resolve he has in continuing his protest despite mounting pressure and deteriorating health. He remains resolute in his stance that he will only break his fast once the government addresses the core demands of the farmers.

The failure of the government to address these demands has led to an extended deadlock. Attempts to end Dallewal’s fast through negotiation have largely been unsuccessful. On the evening of December 28, a delegation led by retired Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jaskaran Singh visited Dallewal in an attempt to convince him to accept medical assistance, but their efforts yielded no result. Singh, who later spoke alone with Dallewal, was unable to persuade the leader to end his fast or accept medical intervention. According to a senior police officer involved in the negotiations, “We can only request him (Dallewal) to understand the gravity of the situation, but despite repeated attempts, we haven’t been able to make any breakthrough so far.”

Farmer leader Sukhjeet Singh also mentioned that Punjab government officials had made two separate proposals to Dallewal, but both were rejected. He added that a third meeting was scheduled to take place, during which the officials hoped to offer a concrete solution, particularly in securing a meeting between the farmers’ representatives and the Union. Such a meeting, it is believed, could lead to Dallewal agreeing to receive medical care.

The long-running protest and the Government’s position- A stalemate

The ongoing protest by farmers, primarily from Punjab, at the Punjab-Haryana border has been in place since February 13 of this year. It began when the farmers’ “Chalo Delhi” march was stopped by security forces, preventing them from reaching the national capital to voice their demands for the legal guarantee of MSP. The farmers’ protests, organised by groups like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have continued through various phases, including a series of failed negotiations with the government.

Despite the long duration of the protests, the government has not been able to resolve the issues, leading to frustration on both sides. In an attempt to de-escalate tensions, Punjab government officials have held multiple discussions with Dallewal. However, each time, the proposals have been rejected by the protesting leader. The continued refusal to accept medical aid has left the government in a difficult position, as the Supreme Court has ordered that Dallewal be given medical treatment and moved to the hospital if necessary. However, the government faces resistance from the farmers, particularly those at the Khanauri border, who are determined to prevent any forceful eviction of their leader.

Despite the high stakes and intense pressure, farmer leaders have remained committed to a peaceful, non-violent approach, adhering to Gandhian principles. Abhimanyu Kohar, another leader involved in the protests, has been vocal about the government’s attempts to undermine the farmers’ movement and defame the protestors. Kohar argued that the narrative being pushed—that farmers are stubborn and unwilling to negotiate—is a distortion of the reality on the ground. “It is the Centre that is adopting such an attitude, not listening to us, and not paying any attention to farmers’ demands,” Kohar stated during a press conference at the Khanauri protest site, as per the Hindustan Times.

Kohar further emphasised that despite enduring significant hardships and oppression from the government, the farmers have stayed committed to the principles of non-violence. He explained, “We are continuing our agitation by adopting Gandhian principles. Our agitations have proven that, despite enduring so much due to the government’s oppression, we have continued to protest in a Gandhian manner.” The farmers, he stressed, are not seeking violence but are simply asking for their legitimate demands to be met.

Kohar also called on the people of India to rally in large numbers at the Khanauri border, as the protest enters a decisive phase. He claimed that the agitation has reached the threshold of victory and that it is now up to the government to decide how to proceed. “Dallewal has put his life at stake,” he said, emphasising the gravity of the situation and the farmers’ unwavering commitment to their cause.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann criticises BJP and PM Modi over farmers’ protest

The situation remains highly volatile, with the farmers continuing their protests at key border points in Punjab and Haryana. While there are ongoing efforts by the Punjab government and police to mediate a resolution, the protests show no sign of ending soon. The central government’s reluctance to meet the farmers’ demands, particularly concerning MSP guarantees, has kept the deadlock in place. The farmers’ resolve to fight for their rights, particularly the right to a fair income for their produce, continues to fuel the ongoing protest.

On December 24, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had lashed out at the BJP-led Union government, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to end his “stubbornness” and engage in dialogue with farmers protesting at the state’s border. The farmers are seeking a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price for crops, among other demands. Mann’s remarks came in response to criticism from Punjab BJP president Sunil Kumar Jakhar, who questioned the timing of Mann’s upcoming Australia visit, especially with the state facing significant issues like the ongoing farmers’ protests.

In a tweet posted on his X handle, Mann made a pointed comparison, asking, “If Modi ji can stop the war between Russia and Ukraine, then can’t he talk to the farmers sitting 200 kilometres away (from Delhi)? What time are you waiting for?” This remark reflects Mann’s frustration with the union government’s handling of farmers’ demands.

ਕੇੰਦਰ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਨੂੰ ਆਪਣੀ ਪੁਰਾਣੀ ਜ਼ਿੱਦ ਛੱਡ ਕੇ ਕਿਸਾਨ ਜਥੇਬੰਦੀਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਗੱਲ-ਬਾਤ ਦਾ ਰਾਹ ਖੋਲਣਾ ਚਾਹੀਦਾ ਹੈ…ਕਬੂਤਰ ਦੇ ਅੱਖਾਂ ਮੀਚਣ ਨਾਲ ਬਿੱਲੀ ਨਹੀਂ ਭੱਜਦੀ..ਸੈੰਟਰ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਪਤਾ ਨਹੀਂ ਹੁਣ ਕਿਹੜੀ ਤਪੱਸਿਆ ਕਰ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ ?? ਜੇ ਮੋਦੀ ਜੀ ਰੂਸ ਤੇ ਯੂਕਰੇਨ ਦੀ ਜੰਗ ਰੁਕਵਾ ਸਕਦੇ ਨੇ ਤਾਂ 200 ਕਿੱਲੋਮੀਟਰ ਤੇ ਬੈਠੇ ਅੰਨਦਾਤਿਆਂ ਨਾਲ ਨਹੀੰ ਗੱਲ…

— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) December 24, 2024

Further criticising the Union government, Mann accused the Modi administration of showing “step-motherly treatment” towards farmers and failing to address their legitimate concerns. In a statement to the media, he claimed that while Prime Minister Modi was actively engaging in global matters, while he was neglecting the pressing issues faced by the nation’s farmers. Mann pointed out that despite the serious and genuine demands of farmers, the government had been “blatantly ignoring” them, which he described as highly “deplorable.”

Mann’s remarks also touched upon the Prime Minister’s international image, suggesting that Modi’s focus on emerging as a “global leader” by intervening in global conflicts had overshadowed his responsibility to resolve domestic issues. “It is unfortunate that the prime minister is more worried about emerging as ‘global leader’ by intervening in international affairs rather than resolving the issues faced by the countrymen,” Mann added, expressing his dissatisfaction with the central government’s priorities.

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The post Fight far from over: Punjab farmers bring State to a standstill with Bandh amid hunger strike, a chakka jam, disruptions in road and rail transport appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Dallewal, president, of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Sidhupur) has been observing fast unto death for 28 days to press the government to ensure minimum support price (MSP) as per the MS Swaminathan Commission recommendations and one-time debt relief from government banks and private moneylenders. There were reports of widespread protests on Monday in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Haryana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu to Kashmir and Uttarakhand.

Farmers organisations are also enraged over arrests and registration of alleged fake FIRs in Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh where they have been demanding development of 10% residential plots given in lieu of land procured for residential societies and industries. The protesting farmers also burnt a copy of the draft National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing which they alleged was “the return of the repealed farm laws through backdoor.”

Kuldeep Singh, who was part of the protesting farmers in Jogindernagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, told NewsClick  over the phone that they submitted a memorandum to President of India Droupadi Murmu through Block Development Officer, Mandi, and burnt the draft of the proposed agriculture marketing policy.

“We fought a year-long struggle at the borders of Delhi and it was the martyrdom of 750 farmers that pushed the Narendra Modi government to repeal the three black farm laws. Now, this policy seeks to transfer our produce to private traders without fair pricing. The policy document does not even mention the word MSP. Similarly, it has recommended contract farming.”

The SKM said the protests were being held to remind the Centre of its promise to devise methods to ensure MSP in a legal framework. While some farmer organisations pressed for complete procurement of produce through state agencies, others wanted punitive charges for buying the produce below MSP.

The Centre, through its Secretary (Farmers Welfare) Sanjay Agarwal had assured the SKM leadership that it would form a committee, including representatives from the Centre and state governments, agricultural scientists and farmer leaders of different unions with the mandate to devise methods to implement MSP.

Agarwal’s letter dated December 9, 2021 also noted that the Union government in principle had agreed to withdraw criminal cases by its agencies for participation in the historic famers’ struggle and it would appeal to the state governments too to withdraw the cases. The Centre had also assured farmers that it would hold discussions on the provisions impacting farmers in the Electricity Amendment Act.

However, the government’s invitation to SKM to the committee on Zero Budget Farming was turned down by the Morcha leaders, who alleged that the committee had majority members who had backed the ‘black’ farm laws.

Why MSP is Crucial?

The farmers bodies have maintained that the Commission on Agriculture Costs and Prices (CACP), the Central body responsible for announcing MSP for procuring crops from farmers, had been employing a wrong methodology for calculating the input costs of seeds, fertiliser, herbicides, pesticides, diesel and harvesting. While CACP has used A2 + FL formula, the farmers have been demanding C2+ 50% for just returns on the produce. A2 covers major costs such as fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and diesel among others and FL implies unpaid family labour. C2 refers to comprehensive costs that also cover rents and forgone interest on land apart from traditional costs.

On Dallewal’s fast and deteriorating health, SKM leaders said in case of any untoward development, the entire responsibility would fall on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.

In a statement, SKM core team member Darshan Pal said, “Instead of discussing the acute distress faced by farmers and agricultural labourers, the NDA-3 government is further unleashing an onslaught on agriculture, industry and services through the New National Agriculture Market Policy and Digital Agriculture Mission, National Cooperation Policy, imposing four labour codes and One Nation One Election that erodes the federal rights of the State Governments to facilitate the corporate agenda of ‘one nation one market for corporate profiteering’.

Memorandum to President

The memorandum submitted to the President of India by SKM leaders read, “It is highly unfortunate that the Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi is not ready to hold discussions with farmer organisations on struggles. Instead, consistent efforts are there to brutally suppress the struggles of farmers at Shambu and Khanuri borders of Punjab and Noida-Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh by using tear gas shelling, rubber bullets, water cannons and putting hundreds of farmers in jail for holding peaceful demonstrations and Dharna.”

It further noted that In the Gautam Buddha Nagar, the FIR No.0538 dated December 4, 2024, revealed that the Police Commissionerate had implicated 112 farmers on false charges under Section 109 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Nyay Samhita for attempt to murder of a police sub-inspector…. “The farmers are in jail for the last 21 days,” it added.

The memorandum also held that the “new National Agriculture Market Policy is part of the strategy of the corporate agenda to permit backdoor resurrection of the three farm laws. The conscious efforts in the last two years to thwart procurement in APMC markets in Punjab and Haryana, dismantle FCI by promoting cash transfer on food subsidy, reduction of food subsidy by Rs. 60,470 Cr. and fertiliser subsidy by Rs. 62,445 Cr. in the last three consecutive years are corporate attacks on the existing system of limited MSP and Food security of the country.”

Courtesy: Newsclick

The post Save Dallewal’s Life, Hold Discussion on MSP, Says SKM in Memo to President Murmu appeared first on SabrangIndia.

Candle light processions are being carried out in the villages of Greater Noida demanding immediate release of farmers put in Jail by Yogi Adityanath Government of Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/Oq7vZSUY1s

— AIKS (@KisanSabha) December 19, 2024

Background

On December 17, (Tuesday), a significant development unfolded in Greater Noida when a court granted bail to 86 farmers arrested during protests earlier this month. These farmers had been detained during demonstrations demanding increased compensation for land acquisition in the region. The arrests occurred on December 4 and 5 at Zero Point in Greater Noida, where 136 farmers were taken into custody. While eight farmers had been released on bail last week, the 86 granted bail on Tuesday will remain in jail until they deposit a surety of Rs 20,000 each.

The farmers’ protests erupted in response to the Uttar Pradesh government’s failure to fulfil promises of increased compensation for land acquired from farmers for various development projects. Led by farmer unions such as the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), the farmers have been advocating for compensation rates that reflect the rising costs of living and the value of their land. These protests led to disruptions, including the blockade of the Noida Expressway on December 5, when protesters allegedly damaged barricades and clashed with police.

Sub-Inspector Rahul Kumar filed a complaint against the protesters, accusing them of rioting, unlawful assembly, and causing harm to public servants. In his complaint, Kumar stated that despite police efforts to de-escalate, the protesters continued shouting slogans against the government and police, escalating the situation. However, the farmers’ leaders maintain that their protests were peaceful and that the charges were fabricated, as Times of India reported.

Farmers’ struggle in Noida and Greater Noida

The farmers’ struggle in Noida and Greater Noida is a powerful manifestation of resistance against the land acquisition policies that have long been a source of tension in Uttar Pradesh. This struggle is deeply rooted in the farmers’ demands for rightful compensation and alternative livelihoods.

Land acquisition and political Relevance

The backdrop to the farmers’ protests in the region is the ongoing process of land acquisition for several major development projects. These include the construction of the Greater Noida and Noida industrial zones, the Yamuna Expressway, the Jewar International Airport, and various projects under the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Corporation (UPSIDC). Farmers argue that their land was acquired without fair compensation, leaving them without sufficient support for their livelihoods. The struggle for land rights in this region has gained increasing political relevance as it exposes the exploitative relationship between the state government and corporate forces benefiting from these land acquisitions.

Past struggles and farmer solidarity

The farmers’ struggles have been ongoing for several years, with the All-India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) playing a crucial role in mobilizing farmers and building solidarity across communities. In 2023, after farmers successfully pushed for the formation of a High-Power Committee, the government promised several measures, including higher compensation and the return of a portion of acquired land. However, the BJP-led state government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has failed to implement these recommendations, prompting farmers to intensify their struggle.

November-December 2024: escalation of protests

The situation reached a boiling point in November and December 2024, when ten major farmer organizations under the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) banner organized a Mahapanchayat in Greater Noida on November 25. The farmers, including a large number of women, demanded immediate action from the Uttar Pradesh government to address their concerns. When the government failed to respond, the farmers organized day-and-night protests from November 26 to December 1.

Violent crackdown and arrests

On December 2, 2024, thousands of farmers attempted to march to Delhi, but were stopped by police barricades, resulting in traffic disruptions. The government responded by making several promises to engage with the farmers, but the situation worsened on December 3, when police forces violently evicted the protesters. Over 160 farmers, including key leaders, were arrested and sent to Luksar Jail, with many others detained at their homes under house arrest.

The struggle for land rights in Noida and Greater Noida has become emblematic of broader issues surrounding land acquisition, compensation, and the rights of rural farmers. It represents a direct challenge to the BJP-led state government’s corporate-friendly policies, and it has sparked widespread support from farmers across the country. The movement continues to gain momentum, with more protests planned and the farmers’ determination to secure their rightful claims remaining unshaken.

Related:

Farmers Declare Punjab Bandh on Dec 30 Amid Deteriorating Health of Dallewal

‘Kisan Satyagraha’, a visual diary of a year-long, historic struggle that forced a regime to withdraw three anti-farmer laws

Farmers protest: Documentary ‘Kisan Satyagraha’ barred from Bengaluru film fest

The post Candlelight protests in Greater Noida demand immediate release of jailed farmers appeared first on SabrangIndia.

The protest was called in response to alleged excesses inflicted on farmers who tried to march towards Delhi to press for their demands on Minimum Support Price and one time debt relief. At least 21 trains were cancelled and several trains were short terminated in Ambala and Ferozpur division. The protesters squatted on major railway stations including Moga, Faridkot, Gurdaspur, Batala, Jalandhar, Sangrur, Tarn Taran and Muktsar.

Harmeet Bains, leader, Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union said, “We have stopped trains from 12 PM to 3 PM at more than 100 locations in the state. After the Supreme Court directed the Haryana administration to allow farmers their march on foot, we were met with sheer high handedness, tear gas and water cannons. The centre is in sleep mode from 2014 itself. The farmers are too citizens of this country. We provide grains to feed the people. If peasantry is destroyed, the country will face serious repercussions.”

Addressing a press conference at Shambhu border, Jaswinder Singh Longowal, leader, Bharatiya Kisan Union Ekta Azad said that the participation of common people in rail roko protest surpassed their expectations.

“Even the unions out of our organisation’s ambit extended their support. It must be remembered that the fast unto death of veteran leader Jagjeet Singh Dallewal entered 23rd day and no centre representative reached out to us over our demands,”he said.

He said,”today’s protest amply demonstrates that the people of the state are frustrated with this government. Both forums, Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political), have decided that the movement will be intensified in Punjab. A complete bandh will be observed in the state on December 30 and we will request people to ensure massive participation. I request farmers bodies, shopkeepers, workers to understand that winning this struggle is the need of the hour. I ask you to form village committees to campaign in rural areas. We cannot forget the sacrifices made by our leaders. We cannot forget the humiliation meted out to us by the centre.”

Meanwhile, the health of Dallewal, President, Bharatiya Kisan Union (Sidhupur), further deteriorated on 23rd day of his fast with doctors expressing possibility of multiple organ failure. The Supreme Court too showed concern over deteriorating health of Dallewal and directed Punjab government to make necessary arrangements in case hospitalisation is required.

The bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan on Wednesday said,”As regard to medical aid to Mr.Jagjit Singh Dallewal, learned Advocate General fairly submits that even as per the doctors, he is immediately required to be hospitalised. That being the medical condition, we direct the State Authorities to take all necessary steps and ensure that the medical aid of hospitalisation, as per the doctors advise, is provided to Mr.Jagjit Singh Dallewal, without any delay.”

After the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the decision of repealing the farm laws, Centre, through its Secretary (Farmers Welfare) Sanjay Agarwal had assured the leadership of Samyukta Kisan Morcha that it will form a committee including representatives from centre and state governments, Agriculture Scientists and farmers leaders of different unions with the mandate to devise methods to implement minimum support price.

The letter dated December 9, 2021 also noted that the Union government in principle agrees to withdraw criminal cases by its agencies for participation in the historic struggle and it will appeal to the state governments too to withdraw the cases. The Centre will also hold discussion on provisions impacting farmers in Electricity Amendment Act.

However, the government’s invitation to SKM to the committee on Zero Budget Farming was turned down by the morcha leaders as they alleged the committee had majority of members who had backed the farm laws.

Why MSP is crucial ?

The farmers bodies have maintained that the Commission on Agriculture Costs and Prices (CACP), the central body responsible for announcing minimum support price for procuring crops from farmers, has been employing wrong methodology for calculating the input costs of seeds, fertiliser, herbicides, pesticides, diesel and harvesting. While CACP has used A2 + FL formula, the farmers has been asking for C2+ 50 percent for just returns on the produce. A2 covers majors costs such as fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and diesel among other costs and FL implies unpaid family labour. C2 refers to comprehensive costs which also covers rents and forgone interest on land apart from traditional costs.

Tejvir Singh, leader, Bharatiya Kisan Union Shaheed Bhagat Singh said that the Centre has introduced a draft of National Policy Framework on Agriculture Marketing instead of initiating any dialogue. He said,”I have no hesitation in saying that the centre has reintroduced repealed farm laws through back door. If we look at the policy framework, there is no single word on Minimum Support Price in the whole document to which our 10 months struggle is dedicated. We are witnessing an assault on our federal structure too where states have no role in determining their priorities whereas the seventh schedule of Constitution maintains agriculture s a state subject. We also wish to highlight that the some important khap panchayats have extended their support and announce it formally on 19.12.2024 at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh.

Surjeet Singh Phul, Chairman, Bharatiya Kisan Union Krantikari, said that the forums also declined to meet the panel formed by Supreme Court citing its limited mandate. “We categorically stated that the panel has no powers to take decisions and it appears to be a delaying tactic. We will only meet the representatives of centre which needs to deliver its promises now.”

Meanwhile Samyukta Kisan Morcha has given a call to observe nationwide protests on December 23 over repression of farmers in Greater Noida. Simultaneously, it demanded resumption of dialogue with farmers organisations and withdrawal of National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing.

Talking to NewsClick over the phone, Hannan Mollah of SKM said that “Sarvan Singh Pandher had expressed his desire for a joint struggle. The constituents of SKM were apprehensive because he was never part of our umbrella organisation. His people’s action brought bad name to the movement when they created a ruckus at the Red Fort and brought national flag down. However, we have called him to meet us at Patiala. ”

The SKM had also written to Prime Minister to accept the genuine, long pending demands of farmers on MSP, loan waiver, stopping privatization of electricity, implementation of LARR Act 2013 and immediately withdraw the new Agriculture Market Policy dated 25th November 2024 proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare that denies MSP, permits corporate control on agriculture production and marketing through digitalization, contract farming, market access to procurement, trespass on the federal rights of the States.

It said,” The recent introduction of the Digital Agriculture Mission, National Cooperation Policy and now the New Agri Market Policy are part of the strategy of the corporate agenda to permit backdoor resurrection of the three farm laws. The conscious efforts in the last two years to thwart procurement in APMC markets in Punjab and Haryana, dismantle FCI by promoting cash transfer on food subsidy, reduction of food subsidy by Rs. 60,470 Cr. and fertiliser subsidy by Rs. 62,445 Cr. in the last three consecutive years are decisive corporate attacks on the existing system of MSP and Food security.”

Courtesy: Newsclick

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 SKM even protested the arrogance of the UP Administration both Revenue and Police Departments for nakedly violating the consensus made with the farmer’s leadership on 2nd December 2024 asking for seven days for the Chief Secretary of UP to discuss with the farmers leadership and resolve the demands.  As per their request, the farmers had shifted the spot of the struggle to the Dalit Prerena Sthal of Ambedkar Park and continued the night and day Sit-in struggle. But the Police force was deployed in huge numbers and forcefully evicted the peacefully agitating farmers. 

 The struggle of the project affecting farmers of Greater Noida region to protect their land rights has been continuing for more than the past 18 years. Six farmers had been martyred in the Police firing as part of this struggle during 2008, 2011 and 2012. There were massive struggles across the country against such widespread land acquisition to facilitate corporate profiteering.  In this context, the then UPA2 Government headed by Manmohan Singh was forced to enact the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act 2013(RFCTLARR Act) to protect the land rights of farmers.  

In 2014 however, the BJP led NDA1 Government  led by Narendra Modi passed, without debate, the Land Acquisition Ordinance to invalidate the LARR Act 2013.  Due to the farmers’ struggle across the country under the banner of Bhumi Adhikar Andolan, they failed to enact the law. Howwver, BJP led State Governments including Uttar Pradesh have passed state land laws to violate the LARR Act 2013. Farmers however are continuing the struggle for their genuine land rights and the struggle of Greater Noida project affected farmers is part of this countrywide struggle.   

The statement asserts that the Adityanath Government has failed to ensure justice to the farmers and that the circle rate of land has not been revised since 2017. Farmers in UP have been denied adequate, lawful compensation and benefits assured by the LARR Act 2013 including employment, resettlement and rehabilitation. The Greater Noida project affected farmers are entitled to get back 10% of the developed land, employment for landless farmer households, four times rate of circle rate as compensation apart from resettlement and rehabilitation.  Moreover, the statement says that the BJP led State Government cannot evade its responsibility of ensuring that these lawful rights of the project affected farmers. Apart from Greater Noida farmers, lakhs of farmer households across Uttar Pradesh also have also been affected. The SKM has also appealed to all farmers to consistently advance the struggle until victory achieved and justice is done to all the victim farmer households. 

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Eyewitnesses, while speaking to Indian Express, described the operation as sudden and forceful. Amrik Singh of the Bharti Kisan Union (Sidhupur) recounted, “The police came at 2:30 am and broke the fibreglass wall of the temporary room where Dallewal ji was sleeping. When he refused to open the door, they forcibly entered and took him to an undisclosed location.”

While speaking to IE, Singh added that over 250 officers participated in the operation, locking the farmers in their huts or trolley homes to prevent resistance. Balpreet Singh, a close associate of Dallewal, described the swiftness of the operation: “I was held back by the police and couldn’t even reach my phone to document what happened. Within two minutes, they had taken Pradhan ji (Dallewal).”

Sarwan Singh Pandher, coordinator of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), criticised the heavy-handedness of the security forces. “This joint operation by the Punjab Police, Haryana Police, and central forces is a blatant violation of our constitutional right to protest. We strongly condemn these actions and demand transparency regarding Dallewal’s whereabouts.”

Despite assurances from Dr Nanak Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Patiala, that Dallewal was moved for medical reasons due to his age and cancer diagnosis, farmer unions remain sceptical. They claim that the act was a deliberate attempt to disrupt their movement on Constitution Day, a day that symbolises the protection of fundamental rights, including the right to protest.

Farmers’ demands and the context of the protest

Jagjit Singh Dallewal, had announced on November 25 regarding his decision to launch a fast-unto-death protest. This protest was aimed at pressing for the implementation of a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for crops—a long-standing demand of Indian farmers. This announcement coincided with the fourth anniversary of the historic farmers’ protests that began on November 26, 2020, against the now-repealed three farm laws.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have accused the government of failing to engage with farmers on critical issues since February 18, 2024. Key demands of the protesting farmers include:

• Implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations for fair pricing.
• Farm debt waivers and pensions for farmers and agricultural labourers.
• Compensation for families of farmers who lost their lives during the earlier 2020-2021 protests.
• Justice for victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence of 2021.
• Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and withdrawal of police cases against protesting farmers.
• Prevention of electricity tariff hikes and measures to support small-scale farmers.

Despite months of demonstrations at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 2024, the government has made no progress in addressing these demands. As the government continues to stall, the frustration among farmers has intensified.

More about the February farmers protest can be read here.

Intensifying the struggle and the question of fundamental rights

The forcible removal of Dallewal has provoked widespread anger among farmer unions. In response, the BKU (Sidhupur) and SKM (non-political) have called for farmers to gather in large numbers at the Khanauri border. Additionally, Chetavni rallies (warning rallies) have been planned across 500 districts in India, with central trade unions joining the movement. A Delhi Chalo march has also been scheduled for December 6, 2024 starting from the Shambhu border, further raising the stakes.

Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu has shifted the blame entirely to the Punjab government, led by Bhagwant Mann. “This was orchestrated by the state police. The Centre has always supported farmers and would not resort to such actions,” Bittu claimed, though his statement has done little to placate the agitated farmer community.

This incident raises fundamental questions about the erosion of democratic principles, especially on Constitution Day—a day meant to reaffirm commitments to justice, liberty, and equality. The right to peaceful protest, enshrined under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, has been repeatedly challenged in recent years, particularly when it comes to mass movements like those led by farmers. The use of force to suppress dissent reflects an alarming trend of undermining civil liberties, as highlighted by the unannounced and forceful detention of Dallewal.

The protestors assert that such actions will only strengthen their resolve. Farmer leader Dallewal, before being detained, stated, “I am ready to sacrifice my life for this cause. This fight will continue until the government addresses our demands.” As the agitation gains momentum, the larger question remains: will the government respect the constitutional right to dissent, or will it continue to view protests as a threat to be quelled by force?

Separate ongoing protests against forced land acquisition by UP government

Farmers affected by forced land acquisition under various Uttar Pradesh governments gathered today, on November 26, in a massive Kisan Mahapanchayat outside the offices of the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA). For over two years, these farmers have been engaged in a sustained struggle, demanding the return of the 10% developed plots they were promised but never received.

The Mahapanchayat, organised under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), brought together farmers from more than 200 villages in Gautam Buddha Nagar district. The event marked the launch of a renewed fight for justice, with active participation and leadership from the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) in the region.

Farmers who suffered forced land acquisition by different UP governments and have been demanding return of promised 10% developed plots for the last two years in a near continuous movement converged today in a mega Kisan Mahapanchayat outside the Greater Noida Industrial (1/n) pic.twitter.com/wCwFNJmF2m

— AIKS (@KisanSabha) November 25, 2024

Listen to Comrade Pushpendra Tyagi, CKC member of AIKS explain why farmers have gathered in such a massive way today outside Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority’s office today. pic.twitter.com/yYbQuEmss9

— AIKS (@KisanSabha) November 25, 2024

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The MVA has put forth a set of ambitious proposals aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape of Maharashtra. By focusing on financial security, infrastructure development, and long-term sustainability, the manifesto seeks to create a more supportive environment for farmers. Key commitments include ensuring Minimum Support Prices (MSP), simplifying crop insurance schemes, and investing in rural infrastructure. These measures are designed not only to alleviate the immediate financial burden on farmers but also to address the structural issues that have long hindered the agricultural sector in the state. With a focus on improving market access, offering financial relief to affected families, and promoting agricultural diversification, the MVA’s promises seek to lay the groundwork for a more resilient and thriving farming community in Maharashtra. These promises have been discussed in detail below:

Immediate relief for farmers: Debt waiver and loan repayment incentives

Maharashtra has one of the highest rates of farmer suicides in India, a tragic statistic that has often been linked to the crushing burden of agricultural debt. Farmers in the state are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on monsoon-dependent crops, which often fail due to unpredictable weather patterns, such as droughts, floods, or delayed rainfall. In the face of these challenges, many farmers turn to loans from moneylenders, often with exorbitant interest rates, which further entrench them in debt.

The MVA’s promise to offer debt waivers of up to Rs. 3,00,000 to farmers is a direct response to this crisis. It is not just an economic relief measure but also a symbolic gesture aimed at restoring the dignity and financial viability of Maharashtra’s farmers. The debt waiver will enable farmers to break free from the cycle of indebtedness that has plagued them for years, providing them with the opportunity to rebuild their agricultural operations and reinvest in their future. Moreover, the Rs. 50,000 incentive for regular loan repayment serves as a proactive measure to encourage fiscal discipline and reduce future borrowing risks, creating a positive feedback loop for the state’s agricultural economy.

These promises are particularly important in light of Maharashtra’s history of poor loan recovery, which has often led to distress and contributed to the high rate of farmer suicides. By addressing both the immediate financial burden and incentivising responsible loan repayment, the MVA is taking a significant step toward reducing the root causes of farmer distress.

Support for families affected by farmer suicides

Maharashtra has long struggled with the devastating impact of farmer suicides. According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, the state consistently ranks high in terms of farmer suicide rates, a reflection of the profound emotional and financial toll these tragedies take on farming families. In many cases, farmers face not only economic ruin but also the societal stigma associated with failure. The families of those who commit suicide are often left to fend for themselves with little to no support from the government.

The MVA’s promise to review existing schemes and enhance support for widows and children of farmer suicide victims is an essential social welfare intervention. By providing financial support, education scholarships for children, and healthcare benefits, the MVA seeks to ensure that the families of deceased farmers do not fall into further poverty or despair. This initiative will go a long way in alleviating the long-term social and emotional impacts of farm-related suicides, offering a lifeline to those left behind in a community already struggling with poverty and uncertainty.

This promise is particularly relevant to Maharashtra’s rural landscape, where traditional social structures often fail to provide the necessary emotional or financial support for grieving families. It reflects an understanding of the need for not just material but also emotional security in the wake of such tragedies.

Minimum support prices and crop insurance reforms

Maharashtra’s farmers are often at the mercy of fluctuating market prices, which are heavily influenced by both domestic and global factors. Whether it’s cotton, onion, or sugarcane, price volatility has left many farmers struggling to break even. While the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism exists to protect farmers from severe losses, it is often inadequate, especially for crops where procurement systems are weak or non-existent. For instance, onion farmers in Maharashtra have frequently faced crises when prices plummet, leaving them with losses as their produce rots in the fields.

The MVA’s commitment to ensuring MSP for farmers is critical in this context. By guaranteeing a minimum price for agricultural produce, the government is providing a safety net that helps protect farmers from market volatility. This policy is particularly relevant in Maharashtra, where crops like onions, tomatoes, and pulses are grown in abundance but often face unpredictable pricing in the open market. Farmers will no longer have to bear the brunt of market forces alone, which can be particularly devastating during periods of bumper harvests or price crashes.

In addition, simplifying the crop insurance scheme will ensure that farmers receive timely compensation for losses due to natural disasters. Maharashtra is no stranger to droughts and floods, and the complexity of the current crop insurance system often discourages farmers from opting into the scheme. By removing burdensome conditions and ensuring greater transparency, the MVA promises to make crop insurance more accessible, especially to smallholder farmers who are most vulnerable to the impact of climate change. This reform could significantly reduce the financial risks faced by farmers in the state, enabling them to recover faster from setbacks.

Sustainable farming: The ‘Maharashtra Millet Mission’ and environmental protection

Climate change has already had a visible impact on Maharashtra’s agriculture. Erratic rainfall patterns, long periods of drought, and rising temperatures have made traditional farming increasingly unviable in certain parts of the state. Crops like cotton, sugarcane, and rice, which are water-intensive, have faced lower yields due to these climatic changes, while farmers in drought-prone areas have struggled to make ends meet.

The MVA’s ‘Maharashtra Millet Mission’ is a timely and forward-thinking initiative. Millets, which are drought-resistant and require less water, can be a game-changer for the state’s farmers, particularly those in dryland areas. By promoting the cultivation of millets, the government aims to diversify crop production, reduce dependence on water-intensive crops, and ensure greater resilience to climate fluctuations. This mission also has the potential to boost local food security and create new markets for these nutritious crops, which have been largely neglected in India’s agricultural policies.

This initiative resonates with Maharashtra’s farming community, especially in districts like Marathwada and Vidarbha, which face recurring droughts and water scarcity. It provides farmers with an alternative that is both economically viable and ecologically sustainable, aligning with global trends towards more climate-resilient agriculture.

Milk prices and horticultural support: Securing livelihoods

Dairy farming is a vital part of Maharashtra’s agricultural economy, and milk is one of the state’s largest rural industries. However, dairy farmers have long faced issues such as fluctuating milk prices, poor infrastructure, and inadequate support for processing and marketing. The MVA’s promise to set milk prices annually, taking production costs into account, is a much-needed measure to stabilise this sector. By ensuring fair prices for dairy farmers, the government is addressing the core issue of income instability, which has long plagued this vital sector.

Similarly, the protection of onion and tomato cultivators through the ‘Pink and Saffron Revolutions’ is a targeted response to the challenges faced by farmers in Maharashtra’s horticulture sector. Onions, in particular, have been at the centre of several market crises in recent years, with price drops leading to massive losses for farmers. By ensuring better support for these crops, the MVA is seeking to secure the livelihoods of millions of farmers, particularly those in rural areas who depend on such crops for their income.

Infrastructure development: Connecting farmers to markets

Maharashtra’s rural areas face a significant infrastructure gap. Poor roads, inadequate storage facilities, and insufficient market linkages often result in farmers losing a substantial portion of their produce. The MVA’s promise to invest Rs. 10,000 crore in developing permanent, gravelled roads connecting farms to markets is a transformative policy. Improved road infrastructure will reduce transportation costs, cut down post-harvest losses, and enable farmers to reach distant markets more easily, thus ensuring better prices for their produce.

This promise directly addresses one of the most persistent issues faced by farmers in the state’s rural areas, particularly in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions, where road connectivity is often poor, limiting market access and agricultural productivity.

Creating alternative employment opportunities

The promise to reduce the dependency on agriculture by creating alternative employment opportunities is a long-term vision aimed at transforming Maharashtra’s rural economy. Agriculture, though the mainstay of rural Maharashtra, is no longer a sustainable livelihood option for a growing population. With increasing mechanisation and declining profitability in certain sectors, many farmers are forced to abandon their lands in search of better opportunities in cities.

By creating new avenues for employment through skill development, industrial growth, and rural entrepreneurship, the MVA aims to ease the pressure on agriculture. This vision will not only reduce rural-urban migration but also diversify the income sources for rural families, leading to more balanced and equitable development across the state.

Unmet demands and growing discontent: The cotton vs. soybean price dilemma in Maharashtra

Maharashtra’s farmers are in the midst of an ongoing struggle against unfair prices for their produce, and this issue is becoming more prominent as the state heads toward its legislative elections. A particularly contentious point is the discrepancy in the assurances given to soybean farmers compared to cotton farmers.

As Vijay Jawandhiya from the Farmers’ Organization Paik has highlighted the said issue, while pointing out that both the Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress party have promised to buy soybeans at significantly higher prices than the current market rates—₹6000 per quintal from the BJP and ₹7000 per quintal from Congress—the same level of commitment is not being extended to cotton farmers. Cotton, a major crop in Maharashtra, especially in the Vidarbha region, has not seen similar price guarantees, despite the fact that the MSP (Minimum Support Price) for cotton is ₹7520 per quintal. Farmers are being forced to sell their cotton for ₹6000 to ₹6600, far below the MSP, and this disparity has been a source of growing discontent, as per Jawandhiya

As provided by Jawandhiya, “The contradiction becomes more apparent when we see that the BJP has assured a ₹6000 price for soybeans, which is 20% higher than the MSP of ₹4892. However, this same approach is not being extended to cotton, despite cotton’s MSP being ₹7520. Why is the BJP not offering ₹9000 for cotton, which would represent a similar 20% increase over the MSP? Similarly, why isn’t Congress offering ₹10500 per quintal, which would reflect a 40% premium over the MSP, as they have promised for soybeans?”

This stark difference in treatment for cotton and soybean farmers has raised questions about the government’s priorities and its sincerity in addressing the concerns of Maharashtra’s farmers. The government’s promises, while seemingly beneficial for soybean farmers, do not extend the same sense of urgency or commitment to cotton farmers, whose grievances have only intensified over the years. As cotton farmers continue to face price disparity, they are left wondering why the government is unwilling to offer the same level of support for their crop.

The discontent among farmers is palpable, and this growing frustration is starting to manifest in the political sphere. As the elections draw closer, the BJP’s assurances of a ₹6000 price for soybeans and the Congress’ ₹7000 offer are unlikely to satisfy the farmers who are still being forced to sell their cotton and soybeans for a fraction of the MSP. The discontent could become a pivotal factor in determining voter sentiments, as farmers in the state are realizing that the promises made by both parties fail to address the root issues of fair prices and proper market regulation.

In light of these growing concerns, it is clear that a larger movement is brewing in Maharashtra. As Vijay Jawandhiya from the Farmers’ Organization Paik aptly puts it, “After the elections, whichever government comes to power, farmers will have to stand up and create a massive movement; otherwise, this auction will continue.” He further echoes the words of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, urging farmers to “Learn, Organize, and Struggle.” These words can be deemed to be particularly resonant today, as Maharashtra’s farmers are grappling with unfulfilled promises and systemic neglect of their needs.

The imperative of comprehensive support for farmers

As the farmer movements continue to gain momentum, it is clear that the path forward requires not just political promises, but a comprehensive, long-term strategy to ensure that the state’s agricultural community is not left behind.

The MVA’s emphasis on infrastructure development, particularly the creation of gravelled roads connecting farms to markets, would significantly benefit cotton farmers by improving their access to competitive markets. Better road connectivity would reduce transportation costs and ensure that cotton farmers can sell their produce at fair prices, rather than relying on exploitative middlemen. The MVA also promises to invest in sustainable farming practices and crop diversification, helping cotton farmers in the long run by reducing their dependence on a single, vulnerable crop. This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate price concerns but also ensures that cotton farming becomes more resilient and economically viable in the future.

The MVA’s promises are grounded in the realities faced by Maharashtra’s farming community. From debt relief and MSP guarantees to long-term environmental sustainability measures, these promises are a response to the socio-economic struggles that have plagued the state’s agricultural sector. If implemented effectively, they could transform the rural landscape of Maharashtra, offering farmers not just a lifeline but a pathway to prosperity, stability, and dignity. This comprehensive approach, combining immediate relief with long-term reforms, holds the potential to reshape the future of Maharashtra’s agriculture and ensure that its farmers are not just surviving, but thriving.

It is also essential to note that the promises made by the political parties in Maharashtra, particularly the assurance of higher prices for soybeans, underscore the growing recognition of farmers’ struggles. However, the selective nature of these promises—favouring soybeans while overlooking cotton—raises critical questions about the government’s approach to addressing the full spectrum of agrarian distress. The issues faced by cotton farmers in the Vidarbha region are not just economic; they are a reflection of the systemic neglect of one of Maharashtra’s most crucial agricultural sectors.

As the elections approach, it is becoming clear that the promises made to soybean farmers are not enough to quell the growing discontent among the state’s broader agricultural community. The stark contrast between the treatment of soybean and cotton farmers highlights a pressing issue: if the government is willing to guarantee a premium price for one crop, why not do the same for others, particularly cotton, which is equally vital to the state’s economy?

The farmers of Maharashtra, who have long been subjected to exploitation by market forces, are no longer willing to accept empty assurances. The growing unrest and the call for a large-scale movement reflect a deep sense of betrayal, as farmers feel that their livelihoods continue to be undervalued. Whether the BJP, Congress, or any other party comes to power, the farmers’ struggle is unlikely to end until these fundamental issues—fair pricing, market regulation, and sustainable agricultural support—are genuinely addressed.

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The post Building a resilient future for farmers: MVA’s vision for agricultural reform appeared first on SabrangIndia.

This essay argues that moving beyond insurance and pension schemes is essential for holistically improving the lives of agricultural labourers. It is crucial to invest in strategies that empower this workforce through skill development, education, and the creation of diverse employment opportunities, enabling them to transition smoothly into non-agricultural sectors and improve their overall well-being.

Defining agricultural labourers

Agricultural labourers are individuals who work on farms or in agricultural activities for wages, rather than operating their own farms. They do not own the land they cultivate nor the tools they utilise. Agricultural labourers provide the manual labour required for various agricultural tasks. They play a critical role in ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of millions in rural areas. In India, they represent a substantial portion of the workforce. The 2020-21 Periodic Labour Force Survey reported that 46.5% of people in India are engaged in agricultural activities.

Agricultural labourers are essential to the agricultural sector because they perform tasks vital for food production. These tasks can include:

• Preparing land for cultivation
• Sowing, planting, and transplanting crops
• Maintaining crops through weeding and irrigation
• Harvesting and threshing crops
• Tending to livestock and poultry

While the ongoing shift towards farm mechanisation aims to enhance productivity, it also poses a challenge to the traditional employment patterns of agricultural labourers. This displacement necessitates exploring alternative employment avenues to ensure their continued well-being.

Farm mechanization, reduced labour demand, and potential risks

Farm mechanisation is causing a decline in the demand for manual labour in India by replacing human workers with machines for various tasks. This shift is driven by the need for greater efficiency and output in the agricultural sector. The increasing production of crops like grains, cereals, and oilseeds requires faster and more effective harvesting procedures.

Powered machines help meet this need, enabling farmers to reduce costs and increase yields. As per a 2022 report by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing, 47% of agricultural operations in India are now mechanized, highlighting the ongoing transition. Machines are employed in a wide array of agricultural activities, including seed-bed preparation (ploughing, harrowing), sowing and planting (seed drills), inter-culture operations (weeding, fertilizer application), harvesting and threshing (combine harvesters), and irrigation (tube wells, electric and diesel pumps).

The adoption of farm mechanisation offers several benefits, such as cost reduction due to lower labour expenses and faster task completion. Mechanisation also leads to significant savings in seeds and fertilizers, ranging from 15 to 20 percent, at a conservative estimate.[2] It enhances productivity through improved operational speed and precision in tasks like sowing and harvesting. Furthermore, it optimises resource utilization by ensuring the accurate application of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, reducing waste and environmental impact. Lastly, it allows for increased cropping intensity and higher yields by enabling farmers to work on larger areas efficiently.

However, this transition to mechanisation poses risks for agricultural labourers who depend on manual work. A study in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh found that a one-unit increase in input costs and machine time led to a decrease of 0.06 and 4.34 units in labour requirements, respectively, demonstrating the direct impact of mechanization on labour demand.[3] As machines take over tasks once done by humans, labourers face potential job displacement, unemployment, and lower wages due to an oversupply of labour in the market. Marginal and small farmers, who constitute a significant proportion of India’s agricultural workforce, may struggle to afford or operate expensive machinery, potentially widening the gap between them and larger, more mechanized farms. The displacement of labourers also necessitates finding alternative employment opportunities and providing skills training to facilitate a smooth transition to non-agricultural sectors.

This shift can lead to an unstable income for agricultural workers, creating financial uncertainty for rural families who depend on these earnings. Establishing alternative employment options beyond agriculture would provide these families with a much-needed safety net, helping them maintain a stable income even as the agricultural landscape changes.

Importance of skill development

To help agricultural workers transition to new job sectors, skill development is key. As traditional agricultural tasks are met with low demands, these workers need training in skills that fit other growing industries, such as manufacturing, construction, or services. Programmes that focus on building these skills would empower agricultural labourers to secure better-paying, sustainable jobs, giving them an opportunity to improve their financial outlook and move beyond agriculture-based income.

The need for steady income sources

A reliable income stream is crucial for the well-being of rural families. When families have a consistent income, they can invest in essentials like education and healthcare, breaking the cycle of poverty and building a brighter future. By fostering employment opportunities outside of agriculture, rural families can reduce their dependence on the land, bringing stability and resilience to rural communities as they adapt to modern agricultural practices.

Schemes-the abundance and the lack

The government has several schemes for agricultural labourers but a good amount of them revolve only around insurance and pension. Insurance is a risk mitigation instrument i.e. it exists to make sure that the person who is insured does not find themselves in worse situation than they are in currently. Pension too supports the current situation rather than helping the person to achieve a better standard of living.

The Indian government has enacted the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008, to provide social security benefits to workers in the unorganized sector, including agricultural labourers. This act mandates the creation of welfare schemes for unorganized workers, addressing life and disability cover, health and maternity benefits, old age protection, and other benefits determined by the Central Government.

Several specific schemes fall under this act:

Aam Admi Bima Yojana (Department of Financial Services)

Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare)

In addition, there are three other schemes by the Central Government that offer coverage to agricultural labourers:

• Atal Pension Yojana
• Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana-Life Insurance
• Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana-Accident Insurance

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan Yojana (PM-SYM), launched in 2019, is a pension scheme that provides a monthly pension of Rs. 3000/- to unorganized workers, including landless agricultural labourers, after they reach the age of 60.

Beyond these, other schemes might benefit agricultural labour, but they do not specifically address the loss of employment due to farm mechanisation.

In a reply to a question posed by an MP, which asked about details regarding the shift of people from agriculture to other activities, the government did not provide the details of such shift. Instead of a direct answer, the reply talked about unrelated things and concluded by saying that the Government of India has implemented various initiatives and policies to boost economic growth and employment in the country.
The reply listed initiatives aimed at boosting non-agricultural sectors, including the “Make in India” program, “Start-Up India” initiative, “Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana,” and skill development programs. However, it lacked specific details on how these programs incentivize a shift from agriculture.[4]

This reply also throws light on the fact that the government has been working with scarce data which could affect efficient and effective policy making.

The reason why agricultural labourers need extra protection is because they are deprived of all kinds of resources necessary to get a better life. They are restricted from accessing benefits urbanisation due to lack of capital or skill to move to the city. They are restricted from agriculture due to lack of land etc. Therefore, their lack of resources cannot be solved by placing basic safety nets that barely help them when something bad happens.

A holistic plan-based upliftment must be undertaken to ensure that they do not get left out as the process of farm mechanisation begins to pace up. Specific manufacturing hubs that prioritise employment of women, near villages, incentivising the employment of women along with providing standard health and education facilities can be effective. Only by creating conditions that ensure the improvement in living conditions of agricultural labourers, the goal of restricting unemployment and poverty in rural poor and agricultural labourers can be achieved.

(The author is part of the legal research team of the organisation)

[1] Pib.gov.in. (2024). Agrarian Land. [online] Available at: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1601902 [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024].

‌[2] Guru, P., Borkar, N., Debnath, M., Chatterjee, D. and Panda, B. (n.d.). Rice mechanization in India: Key to enhance productivity and profitability. [online] Available at: https://krishi.icar.gov.in/jspui/bitstream/123456789/31952/1/2.8.pdf.

[3] Gousiya SK and Suseela K, ‘IMPACT of FARM MECHANIZATION on INCOME and EMPLOYMENT and CONSTRAINTS in MECHANISATION of RICE CULTIVATION in WEST GODAVARI DISTRICT’ (2021) 49 The Journal of Research ANGRAU 107 <https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/TJRA/article/view/133453?articlesBySimilarityPage=4> accessed 6 November 2024.

[4] LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.228, 2023 Available at: https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1714/AS228.pdf?source=pqals

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All this revals an abject failure of the BJP led NDA government in planning for the Rabi season and having adequate opening stocks of DAP has created a huge shortage and the crisis for farmers. The global feed and food supply crisis has led to massive shortages of fertilisers. The Government of India has continuously denied the claims of any shortages but the official data show pronounced decline in the availability of urea, DAP, and MoP.  Clearly, the Government preparedness and contingency plans were lacking. As against 34.5 lakh tonnes imported during April to September in 2023, this year only 19.7 lakh tonnes were imported during the same period. There has also been a fall in the domestic production. On 1st October, 2024 merely 15-16 lakh tonnes were in stock as against the recommended 27-30 lakh tonnes; this is while the estimated demand during mid-October to mid-December is about 60 lakh tonnes. Farmers are hit by shortages of DAP and also urea, MoP etc. And reportedly having to pay about Rs.300-Rs400 more than the Government fixed MRP of DAP i.e., Rs.1,350/- per 50-kg bag. Rather than accept the failure and take urgent corrective measures, the Government is in a denial mode and indulging in propaganda on Nano-urea and Nano-DAP whose efficacy is questionable. 

India requires expansion of domestic manufacturing of urea and DAP. The rise in prices of fertilisers due to decontrol also is creating problems. The government needs to secure long-term deals for Muriate of Potash and DAP with other nations. Closure of Public Sector Fertiliser factories also has created problems. Public Sector Fertiliser factories should be reopened and strengthened.

The AIKS has also condemned the BJP led union government for its gross mismanagement of procurement of paddy, moong and other crops especially in Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and other States.  The sluggish lifting of paddy and mismanagement of the procurement process by the government agencies has forced farmers to make distress sale at prices far below even the meagre Minimum Support Prices (MSP). Similarly, Moong is not being procured at the MSP which is Rs.8682/- per quintal and farmers have been compelled to sell it at a loss of Rs.2000/- per quintal. Kisan Sabha has received reports from Haryana and Punjab that police cases have been framed against farmers and some of the farmers have been arrested for stubble burning. This is in violation of the written assurance given by Union Ministry of Agriculture on 9th December 2021 that farmers shall no more be liable to be persecuted for stubble burning. AIKS warns of united protests against this deliberate act of provocation. 

Immediately demanding an adequate supply of DAP and other fertilisers, guaranteed procurement of Kharif crops at C2+50%, the AIKS has stated that Government take responsibility for stubble management rather than harassing the farmers. The statement has been issued by Ashok Dhawale, President and Vijoot Krishnan, General Secretary of the organisation.

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