Haryana Farmers Push Government with 33-Point Demand Letter

A delegation of Haryana farmers, under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, met state officials to discuss 33 demands, including a legal guarantee on the minimum support price for crops. Key officials, including the chief principal secretary to the Haryana chief minister, were present. Talks took place in a cordial atmosphere, addressing issues like crop damage compensation, pending insurance claims, and pest attacks.

A delegation of Haryana farmers met with state government officials on Sunday, presenting a 33-point demand letter. Key requests included a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The farmers, under the banner of the Haryana unit of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), engaged in a seven-hour-long meeting with senior officials, including Rajesh Khullar, the chief principal secretary to the chief minister.

Leaders from 13 farmer organizations, including Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) representatives Rattan Mann, Joginder Nain, and Balbir Singh, participated in the talks. Farmers have been protesting at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, but opening the border was not on the agenda. Mann reported that the discussions were conducted amicably. Major issues discussed included pending compensation for crop damage and insurance claims, and protection from pink bollworm pest attacks on cotton.

The farmers also demanded the immediate distribution of compensation for Kharif 2023 flood-affected areas and other waterlogged places. The state government is expected to respond within two to three weeks, after which farmers will decide on further actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)