1. Central government introduces a 5-year plan for purchasing pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP.
2. Proposal presented by a panel including Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal, and Nityanand Rai.
3. Farmers to discuss proposal before making a decision; ‘Delhi Chalo’ march temporarily halted.
New Delhi, Feb 19: At the latest round of talks with protesting farmer groups, the central government introduced a five-year plan aimed at purchasing pulses, maize, and cotton crops at minimum support prices (MSP) by government agencies.
Presentation of the Proposal
A panel comprising Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Arjun Munda, Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai presented the proposal to farmers after engaging in “out-of-the-box thinking.”
Farmer Leaders’ Response
Farmer leaders belonging to the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha announced that they would discuss the Centre’s proposal within their forums and seek expert opinions before reaching a decision. As a result of this development, they temporarily suspended the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march.
Highlights of the Proposal
- The government’s proposal includes a five-year plan for the procurement of key crops by government agencies at MSP.
- Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the focus on diversification into pulses, cotton, and maize, assuring MSP without quantity limitations.
- Discussions on several policy matters will continue, considering the upcoming elections and the need for comprehensive policy solutions.
Farmer Leaders’ Decision
In response to the proposal, farmer leaders decided to temporarily halt the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march to review the new MSP plan thoroughly. They scheduled discussions within their forums on February 19-20 to gather expert opinions and make an informed decision.
Punjab Chief Minister’s Advocacy
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann advocated for crop diversification and urged for the lifting of internet suspensions in certain areas. He emphasized that decisions regarding the government’s proposals lie with the farmer unions.
Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Meets Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi
Further Protests and Actions
While the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march remains temporarily paused, farmer leaders announced additional protests to maintain pressure on the government. Plans include gheraoing the residences of BJP leaders in Punjab for three days and making toll barriers free for commuters from February 20 to 22.
Future Strategy
A high-level meeting of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha is scheduled in Delhi on February 22 to strategize on future demands and actions, as informed by SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal.
Extension of Internet Suspensions
The suspension of internet services has been extended in certain areas of Punjab districts, including Patiala, Sangrur, and Fatehgarh Sahib, until February 24.
Similarly, the Haryana government has suspended mobile internet services and bulk SMS in several districts until further notice.
