Centre’s Proposal for Farmers Amidst Protest: 5-Year MSP Plan for Pulses, Maize, and Cotton

A panel of Union ministers has proposed a five-year plan to purchase pulses, maize, and cotton at Minimum Support Prices (MSP) from farmers. The proposal emerged after discussions with farmer leaders amidst ongoing protests at the Punjab-Haryana border.

Government’s Proposal

• Long-term MSP Agreement: Government agencies will buy pulses, maize, and cotton crops at MSP for five years through agreements with farmers.
• Involvement of Cooperative Societies: Entities like NCCF and NAFED will enter contracts with farmers growing specific crops to ensure MSP procurement.
• Unlimited Purchase Quantity: No restrictions on the quantity purchased, enhancing farmer security and market stability.
• Development of a Procurement Portal: A dedicated portal will be established to facilitate transparent transactions.

Farmer Leaders’ Response

• Evaluation Process: Farmer forums will discuss the proposal on February 19-20, seeking expert opinions before making a decision.
• Resumption of Protest: If unresolved, the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march will resume on February 21, emphasizing unresolved demands.

Government’s Farm Sector Track Record

• Procurement Figures: Between 2014 and 2024, the government procured crops worth Rs 18 lakh crore at MSP, highlighting significant support for farmers.
• Policy Continuation: Assurances of continued discussions beyond immediate resolutions, acknowledging the complexity of demands.

Punjab Chief Minister’s Advocacy

• Legal Guarantees for MSP: Advocating for legal assurances of MSP to protect farmers’ interests.
• Crop Diversification: Emphasizing the role of MSP in encouraging crop diversification, particularly towards pulses, cotton, and maize.
• Peace and Order: Stressing the importance of maintaining peace and law during protests while advocating for farmers’ demands.

Ongoing Farmer Demands

• Swaminathan Commission Recommendations: Demand for implementation to address agricultural sector concerns comprehensively.
• Pension, Debt Waiver: Calls for pension schemes, farm debt waivers, and other financial support measures for farmers.
• Electricity Tariff Freeze: Opposition to electricity tariff hikes impacting agricultural operations.
• Justice for Victims: Seeking justice for victims of past violence and adequate compensation for affected families.

Reinstatement of Legislation

Demands for the reinstatement of specific agricultural laws and compensation for past agitations’ casualties.