Farmers and Agriculture on the Verge of Collapse, Says Harinder Singh Lakhowal

Harinder Singh Lakhowal, state president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Lakhowal), has criticised the Central Government’s decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of paddy by Rs 72 per quintal, calling it a “cruel joke” on farmers. Lakhowal said the cost of agricultural operations has increased sharply, with labour wages, diesel prices, and spray costs reaching very high levels. Despite this, the government has announced only a Rs 72 per quintal increase in paddy MSP, which, according to him, has completely broken farmers’ trust in the government. He further stated that although the government has announced MSP hikes for around 12 to 13 other crops as well, the benefits are rarely seen at the ground level. Lakhowal alleged that crops such as cotton, soft cotton, pulses, and other produce cultivated by Punjab farmers are not purchased at MSP rates. Instead, he claimed that farmers, particularly in Punjab, are openly exploited by traders. Rejecting the MSP increase announced for paddy and other crops, Lakhowal demanded that the government raise the MSP of paddy by at least Rs 1,000 per quintal. He also urged the Centre to issue clear directions to government procurement agencies to ensure proper procurement of all crops covered under MSP. According to Lakhowal, ensuring fair prices and guaranteed procurement would help farmers become financially stable and improve the quality of life for their families and children. He added that the farming sector and the country’s farmers are currently on the verge of collapse due to rising costs and inadequate support.