Will the Government Make a Positive Move for Farmers, Laborers?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Government's commitment to address farmers' issues.
- Dedicated policies for fishermen and shepherds.
- Increased employment opportunities under MGNREGS.
- Support for disabled individuals and widowed women.
- Focus on organic farming and sustainable practices.
Mumbai, July 3 (NationPress) Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced on Thursday that the government is poised to make a favorable decision addressing the concerns of farmers, agricultural laborers, disabled individuals, fishermen, and shepherds.
During a meeting with former minister Bachchu Kadu, who recently undertook a fast to spotlight the challenges faced by these groups, the revenue minister indicated that a dedicated meeting will soon occur with the Union Marketing Minister to establish a policy aimed at stabilizing onion prices. Decisions will be made prioritizing the welfare of onion producers.
Minister Bawankule expressed intentions to develop a distinct policy for fishermen to address various fishing-related challenges. This policy will emphasize traditional fishing methods and enforce strict measures against environmentally harmful practices such as LED fishing. Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane confirmed that a separate meeting will soon convene to resolve these issues.
Furthermore, the administration plans to incorporate agricultural and dairy activities into the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), which will enhance employment opportunities for rural workers. Discussions are also underway regarding increasing wages under MGNREGA.
In addition, plans are being developed to offer financial support for the accidental deaths of agricultural workers, with a commitment to positive outcomes in this area. The government is also optimistic about providing subsidies for cow dung and organic fertilizers to promote organic farming, a decision expected to be finalized soon, making it significant for environmentally friendly agriculture.
The meeting also addressed the remuneration and structure of Gram Panchayat employees, with the government showing a positive attitude towards their demands and challenges.
Loan forgiveness for farmers and ensuring guaranteed pricing for their produce were key topics of discussion, with strategic decisions in the pipeline aimed at benefiting farmers. A dedicated policy for addressing the numerous issues related to sugarcane is also on the horizon, as stated by Bawankule.
Minister Bawankule affirmed the government’s favorable stance on providing stipends to disabled and widowed women. Guidelines are being issued to relevant officials to address various issues, including the Gharkul scheme, with upcoming decisions anticipated to enhance financial stability for these women.
A separate policy for the shepherd community is also being formulated, with a decision expected shortly. Measures to combat milk adulteration are being strictly enforced, and discussions regarding establishing a baseline price for milk to ensure fair compensation for milk-producing farmers were also part of the meeting.