Farmers' Delegation Urges Haryana CM to Address Concerns Over India-US Trade Deal

Original: Karnal: Farmers’ delegation meets Saini over India-US trade deal

Hindustan Times•Apr 4, 20262 min

In a Nutshell

A delegation from the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) met Haryana's Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to express concerns about the potential negative impact of the India-US trade deal on small farmers. They also demanded a CBI investigation into a paddy procurement scam and adjustments to the procurement schedule to benefit farmers.

Key Points

01BKU delegation led by Gurnam Singh Charuni met Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini.
02Concerns raised about the India-US trade deal threatening small farmers.
03Demand for CBI probe into last year's paddy procurement scam.
04Request for ₹150 per quintal bonus on wheat due to crop damage.
05CM assured that farmers' interests would be prioritized and procurement schedules adjusted.

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Full Summary

A delegation from the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), led by Gurnam Singh Charuni, met with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh to discuss the potential threats posed by the India-US trade deal to small farmers. They argued that the deal would increase multinational corporations' control over agriculture, exacerbating the challenges faced by local farmers. The delegation also called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into a multi-crore paddy procurement scam from the previous year and requested a bonus of ₹150 per quintal on wheat due to crop damage. CM Saini reassured the delegation that farmers' interests would be safeguarded and that arrangements in the markets would be improved. He indicated that a report on crop damage had been requested, and the procurement schedule would be adjusted in consultation with agricultural scientists. Additionally, the BKU reiterated its demand for the withdrawal of cases against farmers from the 2020-21 protests against agricultural laws.

Key Figures

₹150

Requested bonus per quintal on wheat due to crop damage

multi-crore

Referring to the scale of the paddy procurement scam

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Why It Matters

The discussions could lead to improved procurement practices that benefit local farmers, ensuring they receive fair prices for their crops.

Who is affected

Small farmers in Haryana

What to know

Farmers should stay informed about the procurement schedule and engage with local agricultural authorities.

FAQ

The farmers expressed concerns that the India-US trade deal would harm small farmers and increase corporate control over agriculture.

CM Saini promised to safeguard farmers' interests, streamline market arrangements, and adjust the procurement schedule in consultation with agricultural experts.

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