Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany Voices Strong Support for Kerala Farmers
In a significant address that highlighted the growing discontent among agricultural communities, Archbishop of Thalassery Mar Joseph Pamplany declared that the church stands firmly with those who support farmers. The statement was made during the keynote speech at INFARM's Silver Jubilee celebrations, held at the Cathedral Jubilee Hall in Kanjirappally, Kottayam, on Friday.
Political Assumptions and Farmer Votes Challenged
Archbishop Pamplany issued a stark warning to political fronts, emphasizing that they should not take the votes of the farming community for granted. "Political fronts should not assume that our votes are a fixed bank," he asserted, underscoring the need for genuine engagement and support from political entities. This remark reflects a broader sentiment of frustration among farmers who feel neglected by both central and state governments.
Economic Hardships and Loan Burdens
The Archbishop painted a grim picture of the economic realities faced by farmers in Kerala. He pointed out that farmers earn less than half of the Rs 650 daily wage paid to prisoners, a disparity that tempts many to abandon farming and consider incarceration as a more viable option. This shocking comparison highlights the severe financial struggles plaguing the agricultural sector. Pamplany criticized the governments for not considering interest relief on farmers' loans, stating that it is the government's duty to extend a helping hand to those crippled by debt.
Wildlife Management and Farmer Rights
Addressing another critical issue, Archbishop Pamplany discussed the challenges posed by wildlife, particularly wild boars. He expressed gratitude that some of the concerns raised by farmers have been included in the government's wildlife protection law. However, he argued that pigs found on a farmer's land, which have never seen reserve forest areas, should not be classified as wild boars. "Pigs on a farmer's land belong to the farmer," he insisted, advocating for clearer distinctions and protections for agricultural properties.
Furthermore, Pamplany highlighted the lack of measures to control wild animal populations, contrasting it with various programs aimed at human population control. He called for culling measures in Kerala to address this imbalance, emphasizing the need for practical solutions to protect farmers' livelihoods.
Support Price for Rubber and Future of Farming
The Archbishop also focused on the rubber industry, a key component of Kerala's agricultural economy. He described the support price for rubber as merely a lifeline for farmers, warning that if they do not receive at least Rs 300, many rubber farmers will be forced to stop farming altogether. This statement underscores the precarious nature of the sector and the urgent need for sustainable pricing policies to ensure its survival.
In conclusion, Archbishop Pamplany's address at the INFARM Silver Jubilee served as a powerful call to action, urging governments to prioritize farmer welfare, address loan burdens, implement effective wildlife management, and secure fair support prices. His words resonate with the broader struggles of agricultural communities across India, highlighting the need for immediate and meaningful interventions.
