Kalaburagi: The Karnataka State Farmers' Association and the Hasiru Sene Taluk Committee staged a protest in Jevargi on Monday, utilizing a bullock cart to demonstrate against the sale of substandard cotton seeds by agricultural marts. State secretary of the association Mahesh Subedara, along with state joint secretary Allah Patel Ijeri, emphasized that poor-quality seeds should not be distributed under any circumstances. They further asserted that strict action must be taken against those responsible if such seeds are found to be sold.
Demands and Allegations
Taluk president Mallan Gowda Patil Gaunalli demanded that the distribution of fertilizers through the FID system be discontinued and restored to the earlier system. The protesters also called for a complete ban on the sale of low-quality cotton seeds. After the protest, they submitted a petition to tahsildar Mallanna Yalgod.
The agitators alleged that some agricultural marts in Jevargi taluk had sold substandard seeds, causing heavy losses to farmers who purchased them. In contrast, farmers who bought seeds from other marts reported good yields and profits. The protesters urged authorities to investigate the matter and penalize those involved in selling inferior products.
Impact on Farmers
Farmers expressed deep concern over the financial losses incurred due to the substandard seeds. Many had invested heavily in cultivation, only to face poor germination and low yields. The protest highlights the ongoing challenges faced by farmers in accessing quality agricultural inputs.
