The farmers expressed their frustration with the government's failure to initiate the procurement process despite the commencement of sunflower crop harvesting. According to the MSP set by the government, the procurement should have begun from May 25. However, the farmers alleged that no action has been taken by government agencies so far.
Rakesh Bains, a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Charuni), spearheaded the protest and demanded that the government agencies promptly start the procurement process. He emphasized the need for earlier initiation of procurement, suggesting that it should have commenced on May 25 instead of the proposed date of June 1.
Bains also stressed the importance of increasing the number of purchase centers across all mandis in the sunflower sowing belts of the state. As the area under sunflower cultivation has increased and the crop's yield has been promising, he argued that more purchase centers would ensure smooth and efficient procurement, benefiting the farmers.
The farmers' concerns regarding the procurement process have raised questions about the government's commitment to the welfare of the agricultural community. The failure to fulfill the promised MSP for sunflower seeds has further fueled the frustration among the protesting farmers.
The Shahbad grain market witnessed a strong show of solidarity as farmers from various villages and regions came together to voice their demands. The protest highlighted the determination of the farming community to fight for their rights and ensure fair treatment from the government. The farmers have urged the authorities to take immediate action and address their grievances by initiating sunflower seed procurement at the promised MSP. They emphasize that timely procurement is crucial to their livelihoods and the stability of the agricultural sector as a whole.
As the protest unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the farmers' demands and whether they will take steps to rectify the situation. The outcome of this protest will likely have significant implications for the relationship between the government and the farming community, as well as the overall agricultural landscape of the region.
