Farmers' Union Presses Karnataka Government for Urgent Agricultural Reforms
In a significant development from Mysuru, Badagalapura Nagendra, the state unit president of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) and Hasiru Sene, has called upon the Karnataka government to implement robust measures aimed at promoting agriculture and allied activities. This urgent appeal comes against the backdrop of Karnataka ranking second in the country for farmers' suicide cases, highlighting a critical need for intervention to safeguard farmer interests.
Thirteen Demands Presented to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Nagendra revealed that during a pre-budget consultative meeting held with farmers in Bengaluru on February 17, the KRRS submitted a list of 13 demands to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The primary focus of these demands is to curb the alarming rate of farmers' suicides through proactive governmental steps.
Key among the demands is the protection of tobacco growers, who are particularly distressed due to a sharp decline in tobacco prices. Nagendra emphasized that a substantial number of farmers cultivate this commercial crop in regions including Husnur, Periyapatna, and Nanjangud in Mysuru district, as well as Gundlupet in Chamarajanagar district and Araalgud in Hassan district. The union insists that the government must take immediate action to stabilize prices and provide relief to these affected cultivators.
Comprehensive Support for Crop Procurement and Farming Practices
Nagendra further urged the government to procure essential crops such as ragi, jowar, tur dal, and millets at Minimum Support Prices (MSP) and distribute them through the public distribution system. This move is seen as vital for ensuring fair remuneration and food security.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of promoting natural farming and integrated farming practices in the upcoming budget announcements. By adopting these sustainable methods, farmers can potentially increase their livelihood income, thereby reducing economic hardships and dependency on volatile market conditions.
Addressing Land Issues and Legislative Changes
The KRRS president highlighted the severe hardships farmers face due to land-related problems, calling for urgent measures to provide succor to the farming community. In a notable appeal, the union has requested the state government to amend the Karnataka Land Acquisition Act. Currently, this law allows the government to acquire land from farmers for development projects like national highways and railways, but it does not facilitate land acquisition for the construction of houses in rural areas. The KRRS advocates for changes to include housing development, thereby addressing a critical need for rural infrastructure.
Condemnation of Limited Safaris in Tiger Reserves
In a related concern, Nagendra also condemned the limited safari operations at Bandipur and Nagarahole tiger reserves. While not directly tied to agriculture, this issue reflects broader environmental and community interests that impact local livelihoods and conservation efforts.
The collective demands underscore a pressing call for comprehensive policy reforms in Karnataka's agricultural sector, aiming to mitigate crises and foster a more supportive environment for farmers ahead of the state budget.
