Dialogue First

The best way to solve a dispute is to start dialogue. The process may be a bit lengthy, but success is assured. So, without any delay, both the central government and the agitating farmers should come to the negotiation table to find an amicable solution to the crisis arising out of three new farm laws. The farmers are demanding that these laws be repealed; on the other hand, the government is insistent that these laws are aimed at initiating reforms in the farming sector. Thousands of farmers are now camping at the borders of national capital Delhi, braving the severe winter chill. On its part, the government from day one has maintained that the acts will not be repealed while discussion can take place on the issues plaguing the agricultural sector.

Agriculture is the primary sector of the Indian economy as more than 50% of Indian populace is engaged in farming. But over the years, this sector has not been contributing as generously to the country’s GDP as it used to. Clearly, agriculture in India is passing through a troubled phase. The farmers are not getting proper price for their produce. Members of farmer families are losing interest in agriculture. Being burdened by unpaid loans, farmers are committing suicide. All the profits from the agriculture sector are being eaten by the middlemen. In-order to end this crisis, the Centre has brought forward three new laws. However, the farmers have rejected the laws on the pretext that the laws are silent on Minimum Support Price (MSP) and will allow the entry of big corporates in the agricultural sector. Though the Centre has assured that MSP will continue, the farmers are not impressed. The agitators want a law (not written assurance) to continue with MSP fearing that in absence of this safeguard, the corporates will take total control of Indian agriculture and the farmers will become bonded labourers.

While the farmers are right to an extent, one should consider the government’s position too. When MSP was introduced, the situation was different. Then, India was striving hard to become self-reliant in food production. At the same time, there was a need to create a buffer stock to meet any eventuality like famine. With both objectives achieved, now Indian agriculture will have to look forward and become competitive. Along with improving the quality of the product, a competitive environment in agriculture will ensure enhanced earning for the farmers, according to the government. But the farmers are not ready to buy this theory, they argue that in absence of MSP, the corporates will always try to purchase the farm produce at a cheaper rate. The farmers demand that it be made mandatory for the corporates to purchase the produce at a higher rate than MSP. But the government is not relenting as that will cancel the very purpose of making Indian agriculture competitive. In such a situation, both sides will do well to adhere to the Supreme Court’s advice to start discussing afresh keeping the newly enacted laws on hold.