Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agriculture Sector and Farmers Protest;
Mains level: Farmer Demands and Government Initiatives;
Why in the news?
A recent survey conducted by CSDS-Lokniti aimed to gather opinions regarding the ongoing farmer protests.
Opinion about the Farmer Protest:
The major key demands of Farmers in India include:
- On Minimum Support Price (MSP): Farmers demand a legal guarantee for MSP for crops, which is a crucial lifeline for farmers facing market uncertainties.
- On Electricity Act 2020: Farmers are demanding the repeal of the Electricity Act 2020, which they believe will negatively impact their income.
- On Compensation: Farmers are demanding compensation for farmers who died during the previous agitation in Lakhimpur Kheri.
- Withdrawal of Cases: Farmers are demanding the withdrawal of cases registered against farmers during the 2020-21 agitation.
Government Initiatives:
- Negotiations: The government has taken several steps to address the farmer agitation, including negotiations with protesting farmers, proposing the formation of a committee to provide statutory backing to the Minimum Support Price (MSP), and engaging in talks with farmer representatives.
- Demands: Despite promises made to farmers in 2021, the government has not fully responded to their demands, leading to continued tensions and protests. The government’s reaction to the protest still appears to be focused on maintaining law and order rather than proactively addressing the underlying issues raised by the farmers
Conclusion: The CSDS-Lokniti 2024 pre-poll survey highlights divisive opinions on farmer protests, citing demands for an MSP guarantee, repeal of the Electricity Act, and compensation for fatalities. Despite negotiations, unresolved grievances persist, indicating a need for proactive governmental action and dialogue
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