Why Farmers Are Returning to Delhi for Protests
Farmers’ Demands Range from Land Rights to Economic Security
Newsreel Asia Insight #128
Feb. 11, 2024
A significant resurgence of agricultural dissent is anticipated in Delhi. Preparations are underway for thousands of farmers, along with a convoy of 2,000 tractors, to converge on the borders of Delhi. It’s a part of a planned protest, with farmers preparing to make their way to the national capital. The farmers have set an ultimatum for the government until Feb. 12.
In late 2020, India witnessed the beginning of one of the most significant farmers’ movements in its recent history. Farmers from across the country, especially from the northern states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, mobilised against three farm laws introduced by the central government.
These laws were intended to introduce reforms in the agricultural sector, including changes to the way agricultural produce is sold, priced and stored. However, farmers feared these reforms would dismantle the minimum support price (MSP) system, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by large corporations.
The protests gained momentum, with thousands of farmers camping at the borders of Delhi, braving harsh weather and maintaining their stand against the legislation. After more than a year of sustained protests, which saw farmers and supporters from various sectors standing in solidarity, the government announced the repeal of the three farm laws in November 2021.
Despite the government’s repeal of the laws, farmers are once again mobilising with the Feb. 12 ultimatum, according to The Times of India. Their new grievances include demands for a comprehensive guarantee of the MSP system and addressing other longstanding issues affecting their livelihoods, according to The Economic Times.
Farmers, this time, especially from Uttar Pradesh, are demanding fair compensation for land acquired by the government for various development projects. They seek the allocation of 10 percent of abadi (inhabited land) plots or equivalent compensation in exchange for the land taken from them, as reported by The Mooknayak. This issue has been particularly pressing for those in Noida and Greater Noida, where rapid urban and industrial development has led to significant land acquisition.
There’s also a call for providing jobs to the children of farmers, ensuring that families affected by land acquisition or those struggling due to agricultural challenges have a stable source of income. This demand includes access to government jobs or opportunities in the industrial units established on the acquired land.
The demand for free education in private schools for the children of farmers is another key issue. This is aimed at ensuring that the next generation has access to quality education, enabling them to pursue diverse career paths beyond agriculture.
Many farmers are burdened with debt due to loans taken for agricultural inputs, equipment, and other needs. They are seeking waivers or relief measures to alleviate the financial strain and prevent further indebtedness.
The introduction of a pension scheme for farmers and farm labourers is another demand. This would provide financial security to the elderly in the farming community, recognising their contribution to the nation’s food security.
Farmers are also calling for the full implementation of the National Commission on Farmers’ recommendations, chaired by Dr. M.S. Swaminathan. The commission’s report, which includes measures to improve farmers’ income and ensure sustainable farming practices, has been a longstanding demand of the agricultural community.
Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs in Haryana on Feb. 10 declared a suspension of mobile internet services, bulk SMS and all dongle services available through mobile networks across seven districts within the state. The suspension, which excludes voice calls, is set to take effect from 6:00 am on Feb. 11 and will last until 11:59 pm on Feb. 13.
