Why is Jagan Mohan Reddy urging the Naidu government to purchase mangoes at Rs 12 per kg?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagan Mohan Reddy demands fair pricing for mango farmers.
- Over 76,000 farmers are suffering due to low prices.
- Mango prices have dropped significantly since the current government took office.
- Farmers are selling their produce at Rs 2 per kg.
- Government intervention is critical for farmers' livelihoods.
Chittoor, July 9 (NationPress) YSRCP chief Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy urged the TDP government on Wednesday to purchase all mangoes from farmers at Rs 12 per kg.
While addressing the press at the Bangarupalem Market Yard in Chittoor district, Jagan, a former chief minister, criticized the TDP government for its "oppressive" tactics aimed at preventing his visit and emphasized that he will persist in advocating for the people's rights.
He pointed out that more than 76,000 farmers, who cultivated mangoes on 2.20 lakh acres, are suffering as they are not receiving Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their yield of 6.45 lakh tonnes.
Jagan claimed that during the YSRCP administration, mango farmers received Rs 29 per kg, but currently, they are forced to sell their produce at a disheartening Rs 2 per kg. He insisted that the government should buy the complete mango harvest at Rs 12 per kg.
He accused the coalition government of allowing prices to plummet within just a year of coming into power.
The delays in mango procurement have led to surplus produce and significant price drops, which he attributed to the Naidu government's "inefficiency".
"It is disheartening that farmers across the nation are selling their crops at Rs 2 per kg. Meanwhile, Karnataka managed to convince the Centre to purchase its mangoes at Rs 16 per kg. What is Chandrababu Naidu doing? Why hasn't he advocated for better prices for our farmers?" he questioned.
The former chief minister criticized the government for "imposing restrictions" during his attempt to show support for the farmers.
"What harm is there in farmers expressing their grievances when the situation is dire? There is no input subsidy or MSP. The police are harassing and arresting over 1,200 farmers, which reflects the government's insensitivity. I will always stand up for farmers’ rights, whether it concerns mirchi, tobacco, mangoes, or the unfulfilled election promises made by Chandrababu Naidu," he stated.
He condemned the comparison of farmers to rowdy elements, emphasizing that agriculture is the lifeblood of the majority of Chittoor district's population.