Indian PM seeks new talks with farmers protesting against farming laws

World

Published: 2020-12-25 19:42

Last Updated: 2024-03-24 20:41


Photo: BBC
Photo: BBC

 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered Friday to hold new talks with farmers protesting against agricultural reforms approved by his government, in his latest effort to find a solution to the month-long stalemate.

Tens of thousands of farmers have camped near several entrances leading to the capital, New Delhi, since November 26, in protest against three new laws they believe will lead to the dismantling of organized markets.

There is also a fear among farmers that the government will stop purchasing wheat and rice at subsidized prices, which puts them at the mercy of the big companies.

In a live broadcast to farmers, Modi sought to assuage their suspicions while stressing that laws passed in September would give them the freedom to sell their produce "wherever and for anyone they want."

Modi, 70, said, "Lies spread that local mandes (markets) will be closed, that the minimum level of support will stop (...) Do not let those who have political motives mislead you."

"I say it humbly that we are ready to discuss every issue with the farmers, and also with those (political parties) who are against us, for the sake of our farmers."

Modi also released 2.5 billion dollars earmarked for 90 million farmers as part of a financial plan drawn up by his party last year.

Under the direct cash transfer scheme, small farmers will receive 6,000 rupees ($82) in the highest payments during the year.

About 70 percent of India's 1.3 billion people work in agriculture, which accounts for 15 percent of its $2.7 trillion economy.

But in recent decades farmers income has stopped growing, and experts say the sector is in dire need of modernization and more investment.

Farmers' unions demanded the complete abolition of the new laws and warned of larger protests if their demands were not met.

So far, several rounds of talks between ministers and farmers' leaders have failed to reach a breach in the problem.