Farmers’ Protests: Have Discussions with Unions Brought an End to the Agitations?

Leaders of farmer groups have been protesting near Delhi recently. They are demanding the implementation of the M.S. Swaminathan Committee recommendations in the agricultural sector and an increase in the support prices for crops. The government has already called the leaders of the farmers’ associations for discussions three times regarding this issue, but the talks have failed due to the inability to reach a consensus. Last night, the government once again held discussions with the farmers. The meeting, which started at 8:15 PM last night, continued until 1:00 AM early this morning. On behalf of the government, Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai conducted discussions with the leaders of the farmers. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also participated in these discussions.

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Reports suggest that the government has largely conceded to the demands put forth by the farmers during this meeting. Following the meeting, Commerce Minister Goyal reiterated that the government is always committed to the welfare of farmers and assured that their government is always available for assistance. After reaching an agreement with the farmers, it was stated that for the next five years, government agencies will purchase crops like pulses, maize, and cotton at the minimum support price. It was clarified that cooperative societies like NCCF and NAFED will enter into agreements with farmers cultivating crops like pigeon peas, black gram, toor dal, and maize. They mentioned that there would be no limit on the quantity that would be purchased. They also mentioned that a portal will be developed for this purpose. The farmer leader, Sarwan Singh Panthar, stated that they would discuss the government’s proposals with their associations and then make a final decision. He expressed dissatisfaction that there has been no clear announcement from the government regarding loan waivers.