Punjab CM Mann Announces Near Completion of Agriculture Policy Amid Farmers’ Protests

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared that the state’s agriculture policy is nearly complete, pledging to consult stakeholders amid ongoing protests by farmers’ unions. Mann criticized the Union government’s approach to policy-making and addressed issues related to DAP fertilizer shortage and NHM funds. The House adjourned sine die after intense discussions.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Wednesday that the state's agriculture policy is close to completion, promising further consultations with stakeholders.

This declaration came amid protests by the Bharti Kisan Union (Ugrahan) and the Punjab Khet Mazdoor Union. Participating in the concluding discussions of the three-day Punjab Assembly session, Mann emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement in policy formation, contrasting it with the Union government's approach.

Mann pointed to the controversial three farm laws as an example of poor policy-making without consultation. Concurrently, farmers are pressing for the new agriculture policy through ongoing protests. Mann also mentioned addressing fertilizer shortages and the National Health Mission funds with Union Minister J P Nadda.

Additionally, Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh is set to meet a central minister regarding the withheld NHM funds, in light of accusations that the state converted AB-HWC into 'aam aadmi clinics'. The assembly session concluded as the speaker adjourned the House sine die.

(With inputs from agencies.)