By Ananya Sharma
New Delhi: Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar today invited Leaders of farmers’ unions who are protesting against Centre’s farm reform laws for discussions in two batches, first at Vigyan Bhawan in the afternoon and then at Krishi Bhawan in the evening, as the Farmer’s protest enters the Sixth Day.
Also read: Farmers ready for “unconditional” talks with the government over new agri laws
The protesting farmer leaders conceded the request and went for discussions that was also attended by union ministers Piyush Goyal and Som Prakash besides Tomar.
During the meeting at Vigyan Bhawan with representative of farmers’ organisations from Punjab in the afternoon, the Ministers explained the benefits of Farm Reform Acts to the representatives of the Farmers’ Unions. Various issues related to Farm Reform Acts were discussed at length and talks were held “in a cordial atmosphere”.
During the meeting, Tomar emphasised that the Government was fully committed towards the welfare of farmers and agriculture development was always on the top priority for Government of India. He also proposed to constitute an expert committee to put forth the issues of farmers so as to resolve them with mutual consent but the representative of the farmers’ unions suggested that all the representatives will attend further round of discussions with the government to resolve the matter amicably.
The government also suggested the representatives of farmers’ unions to identify the specific issues related to Farm Reform Acts and share with the Government tomorrow for consideration. These issues will be discussed during the fourth round of meeting to be held on December 3, 2020.
“It was assured that the Government of India is always committed to protect the interest of farmers and is always open for discussions for farmers’ welfare,” a Ministry release later said.
The other meeting with Bharatiya Kisan Union leaders began at 7 pm lasted till 8.30 pm at Krishi Bhavan. Talking about the meeting, BKU President Naresh Tikait said the government had started a conversation with Punjab, UP, Uttarakhand, Haryana & Delhi farmers. So, till the next meeting on December 3, it has time to brainstorm over the issues raised by all.
“We will submit draft of our issues on Wednesday,” Tikait said.
Talking to globalbihari.com after the meeting, the Bharatiya Kisan Union General Secretary Dharmendra Malik termed the meeting to be “positive” and that the minister “listened to our problems”.
Malik said the farmer leaders apprised Tomar of their demand and categorically told the minister the farmers of entire country was apprehensive about the provisions made in the new agri laws and were worried that the government would withdraw the Minimum Support Price gradually. The government was told that the farmers wanted the Electricity Bill Amendment to be nullified and a written assurance from the government on minimum support price (MSP).
When asked about their opinion on today’s meetings, Malik said “Government has set up their mind to resolve the issue and further the conversation takes place, we are sure that our problem will be solved”.
Appreciable efforts dear Ananya 💯💯👍