The ongoing protest by farmers has seen a temporary pause in their march to Delhi until February 29. However, the momentum of the agitation persists as various unions orchestrated seminars at the Khanauri and Shambhu borders linking Punjab and Haryana. The focal point of these discussions revolves around scrutinizing the policies outlined within the framework of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
One of the prominent demands articulated by the protesting farmers pertains to the exclusion of the agriculture sector from the purview of the World Trade Organisation agreement. This particular aspect underscores the intricate complexities and challenges inherent in the contemporary agricultural landscape, warranting a reassessment of international trade dynamics vis-Ã -vis the agricultural domain.
The staging of these seminars assumes heightened significance in light of the impending 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO, scheduled from February 26 to 29 in Abu Dhabi. Notably, a high-level delegation from India, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, is slated to participate in the forthcoming conference.
Jagajit Singh Dallewal, the President of Bharti Kisan Union Ekta Sidhupur, elucidated the adverse implications of WTO's policies on Indian farmers, highlighting the constricting impact exerted by these regulations. The absence of a robust minimum support price (MSP) mechanism poses an existential threat to the agricultural livelihoods, rendering sustenance untenable in the absence of adequate safeguards.
Furthermore, Dallewal underscored the glaring disparity in subsidy allocations between India and other nations, lamenting the palpable imbalance that exists. While certain countries extend substantial financial support amounting to approximately Rs 80 lakh per farmer, the corresponding figure in India dwindles significantly to a meager sum ranging between Rs 27,000 to 28,000.
In response to inquiries regarding the possibility of resuming dialogue with the central government, Dallewal noted the absence of any concrete proposal forthcoming from the authorities, casting doubt on the prospects of a fifth round of negotiations. The farmers' steadfast rejection of the government's proposal for a five-year procurement plan underscores the resolute stance adopted by farmer leaders, who advocate for comprehensive MSP coverage across all 23 crops.
Addressing the unfortunate outbreak of violence witnessed in Haryana's Kheri Chopta, Dallewal deplored the regrettable turn of events while emphasizing the nationwide solidarity underpinning the agrarian protest. Furthermore, he criticized the government's approach, alleging attempts at coercion and suppression in dealing with dissenting voices within the farming community.
Navigating the inherent ideological rifts between the apolitical and political factions within the farmers' collective, Dallewal elucidated on the challenges encountered in maintaining cohesion and unity amidst divergent perspectives. Despite the parting of ways, the overarching objective of the protest remains steadfast, transcending individual differences for the collective welfare of the farming fraternity.
