Samyukt Kisan Morcha Engages in Dialogue with CM Bhagwant Mann, Key Demands Discussed
In a Positive Development, Punjab's Agricultural Landscape and Farmers' Concerns Take Center Stage in Meeting
Punjab Farmers News: In a significant move towards addressing the concerns of the farming community, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann engaged in a productive discussion with various leaders of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha at Punjab Bhavan today. The meeting, conducted in a cordial atmosphere, covered a spectrum of issues vital to the well-being of farmers in the region.
Discussions on Water Allocation and SYL Issue
Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, addressing the media post-meeting, highlighted the pivotal points discussed. Chief among them was the upcoming meeting on December 28 regarding the SYL (Sutlej Yamuna Link) issue. The Chief Minister asserted a firm stance, emphasizing that Punjab unequivocally possesses no surplus water to share, and no canals will be allowed to be constructed over its resources.
Resolution on Farmers' Lands and Compensation
The conversation extended to the crucial matter of farmers' lands, with a commitment to resolving core issues related to land allotment from January 1 to April 13. Additionally, the reopening of cooperative society accounts that were previously closed was on the agenda. Minister Dhaliwal assured that all compensations owed to farmers would be disbursed by March 31, with a dedicated committee led by Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Khudian to oversee the process.
Future Policies and Initiatives
Addressing various aspects of agricultural policies, Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian outlined the government's commitment to providing subsidies for electric pumps on border feeders. He emphasized the formation of a committee to discuss the farmers' ability to sell crops anywhere, the possibility of a one-time settlement with NABARD, and the introduction of a comprehensive policy for lands held by farmers with banks.
Commitment to Farmers' Welfare
Minister Dhaliwal affirmed the government's support for farmers, pledging that the private sector would not interfere in electricity matters. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) and opposition to central policies were underscored as areas where the Punjab government would stand in solidarity with the farming community.
Accepted Demands and Additional Assurances
In a positive outcome, the government accepted the demand for providing jobs to the family members of farmers who lost their lives during the farmers' movement. The allotment of farmers' land and compensation for weather-related damages were also addressed. Measures to prevent damage from wild animals, such as the formation of clusters and allowing 12 bore rifles, were discussed, along with compensation for losses due to weather events.
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, a unified front representing farmers, will elect five Kisan leaders to participate in a sub-committee, further strengthening the dialogue between farmers and the government.
Ongoing Discussions and Farmer Demands
The meeting touched upon several other demands, including the cancellation of cases against farmer leaders related to corona, train stoppages, and stubble. Additional discussions involved the provision of solar motors on 80% subsidy, new agricultural connections for farmers, cessation of forced nano packaging with fertilizer/urea, and fair compensation for crop losses due to floods and sandstorms.
As the dialogue between the government and farmers progresses, the collective efforts aim to address and resolve longstanding issues, fostering a more sustainable and equitable agricultural environment in Punjab.
(For More News Apart from Punjab Farmers Latest News, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)