News Flash
February 20
Editorial: Vishal Mayur
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| Farmers protest |
The farmers completely rejecting the government's offer to buy important crops at guaranteed minimum support prices for the next 5 years is very disappointing. This refusal to even consider the proposal shows the unwillingness of farmer union leaders to compromise. It seems they want to continue the protests for political gain rather than actually resolve issues facing farmers.
The government's offer to buy pulses, oilseeds, maize and cotton at minimum support prices through government agencies aligns with the farmers' main demand of getting guaranteed rates. By committing to do this for 5 years and removing limits on quantities bought, the proposal provides income stability for farmers. Additionally, the government softening its earlier stance against buying crops shows it wants to find middle ground.
Yet farmer leaders hastily dismissed this significant proposal without even discussing it with their members. This raises questions whether the union heads are acting in self-interest rather than representing farmer welfare.
So far, the government has been reasonable in negotiations while farmers remain firm on demands. The public inconvenience from roads being blocked also does not gain support for the farmers' cause. The Supreme Court has stepped in too, expressing concern over protests disrupting people's lives.
Instead of outright rejection, farmer unions must show openness and seriousness in considering the government’s proposals with an open mind. By taking such extreme stands and continuing protests, they risk losing public goodwill and trust. The responsibility is now on farm leaders to keep political interests aside and arrive at solutions benefiting farmers.
The government has shown willingness to engage. It is now up to the farmers to reciprocate.