Farmers’ organizations stage protest in Agartala demanding socio-economic improvements

The protesters emphasized the need for an increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for farmers’ produce as input costs have risen

By Pinaki Das

Three farmers’ organizations affiliated to CPIM organized a protest rally in Agartala on Wednesday, demanding improvement of the socio-economic conditions of the farmers.

Under the banners of the All India Kishan Sabha, Tripura Kshet Mazdood Union, and Tripura Rajya Ganamukti Parishad, hundreds of members participated in the protest demonstration. The rally commenced from the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan area, with participants marching through the streets of the capital city, raising slogans against the government.

The protesters emphasized the need for an increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for farmers’ produce as input costs have risen.

They highlighted that rising input costs, combined with an unfair MSP, are leading to indebtedness among various categories of farmers, especially small, marginal, middle, and tenant farmers.

The protesters demanded that high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides be provided to farmers free of charge.

They also called for the implementation of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGA) and the Tripura Urban Employment Program (TUEP) in the agricultural and related sectors.

The demands included providing rural labourers and agricultural workers with at least 200 days of work per year and a minimum daily wage of Rs 600.

Furthermore, the protesters called for the establishment of rice procurement centres in remote areas and an increase in the supportive price for rice purchases.

They also sought greater power and autonomy for district councils through the 125th Amendment to the Constitution.

Additionally, comprehensive central assistance was demanded for the economic rehabilitation of forest-dependent and landless households, along with a halt to the ongoing eviction of forest dwellers.

The protesters were halted near the North Gate area by the police as they attempted to submit their memorandum to the Chief Minister at the Assembly.

The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) informed the leadership of protesters that due to the ongoing session of the Assembly, the Chief Minister would meet them at a later date after the conclusion of the session.

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