Centre's 5-Year Proposal Emerges in Farmer Talks: Insights Unveiled
- Posted on February 19, 2024
- Social Issues
- By Arijit Dutta
- 433 Views
In the ongoing dialogue between the Centre and farmer representatives, the government has proposed a five-year procurement plan for pulses, maize, and cotton crops at MSPs. This initiative aims to provide stability to farmers and promote agricultural growth. Cooperative societies and agencies like NAFED and CCI are set to play vital roles. While discussions continue, farmers persist with protests, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural policies.
During
recent negotiations between the Centre and farmer representatives, a pivotal
proposal emerged, advocating a five-year commitment to procure key crops at Minimum
Support Prices (MSPs). This proposal, presented by Union Minister Piyush
Goyal, aims to ensure stability and assurance for farmers while fostering
agricultural growth.
Under
the proposed plan, government agencies will engage in agreements with farmers
to procure pulses, maize, and cotton crops at MSPs for the next five years.
Cooperative societies, including the National Cooperative Consumers Federation
(NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India
(NAFED), will also play a crucial role in this initiative.
Specifically, cooperative societies are expected to commit to purchasing 'tur dal,' 'urad dal,' 'masoor dal,' and maize crops from farmers at MSPs, thereby providing them with a guaranteed market for their produce. This move not only ensures stability for farmers but also contributes to the revitalization of agricultural landscapes, particularly in Punjab.
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Moreover,
the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) is gearing up to procure cotton from
farmers at MSPs for the next five years, further supporting cotton cultivation
in Punjab. This initiative allows cotton farmers to enter agreements with the
CCI, ensuring the procurement of their produce at MSPs.
While
the government's proposal is under evaluation by farmer leaders, ongoing
protests, such as the 'Delhi Chalo' march, continue to highlight farmers'
grievances and the urgent need for policy reforms. As discussions persist,
stakeholders emphasize the significance of sustainable agricultural policies
that cater to the interests of farmers, government agencies, and consumers
alike.
In
essence, the proposed five-year procurement plan and discussions surrounding
MSPs underscore the critical role of agricultural policies in addressing
farmers' concerns and ensuring their livelihoods amidst ongoing dialogues and
protests.