Replicate Punjab farm policies in State: JP tells govt.
Lok Satta Party founder Jayaprakash Narayan on Tuesday asked the State government to replicate agriculture polices of Punjab where the farmers were leading a happy life with the availability of minimum support price for their produces, marketing yards, storage facilities.
He kicked off ‘Annadata-Gunde Ghosha’ programme in Srikakulam to highlight the plight of farmers in North Andhra region. The top leaders of the party including People for Lok Satta vice-president Prakash Kapila, State vice-president Panchadi Rambabu, senior leaders D. Vishnumurthy, K. Polinaidu accompanied him and explained the conditions of farmers in Srikakulam district. Later, Mr.Jayaprakash addressed a public meeting near Indira Vignan Bhavan and pointed out the lapses in agriculture policies of both the State and the Central governments. Speaking on the occasion, he alleged that the farmers were being paid only Rs.950 although the MSP was Rs.1.160 per bag of paddy in the State.
The Lok Satta founder also alleged that the traders had cheated cotton growers by offering only Rs. 3,200 per quintal although the MSP was Rs.4,500.
“The condition of farmers in the State is pitiable. The government which collects huge amount in the form cess and taxes failed to provide basic amenities in market yards. The government should construct storage facilities in all areas. It should also keep dryers, weighing machines and other facilities,” he said.
Mr. Prakash Kapila asked the Union government to make agricultural activity viable so that the farmers would not take extreme step of ending their lives.
