Water crisis, worsening environment discussed at Jalandhar conference
The Kirti Kisan Union organised a conference dedicated to the memory of farm leader Santokh Singh Taggar here today during which issues regarding the state’s environment and water crisis were chiefly discussed.
Speaking on the occasion, leaders said the issue of water crisis in the state should be solved according to the Riparian principle. They said farmers should shift to organic and sustainable farming models to address the crisis, which erupted in the state, while following the toxic models of the Green Revolution.
A large number of farmers, labourers and women employees participated in the conference. Kirti Kisan Union general secretary Rajinder Singh Deep Singh Wala said the Green Revolution had snatched clean water, soil fertility, fresh air and health from residents.
Toxic sprays and chemicals had polluted the entire environment, he said. To solve these issues, it was necessary to create a nature-friendly and sustainable farming model in Punjab, he said. He said the issue of water sharing should be solved according to the Riparian principle. It was imperative that water be saved from pollution, he added.
He said, “To avoid crisis, Punjab should have control over its waters. Canal water should be available for every farm. Maximum recharge points must be created to address the surface water scarcity.”
While demanding MSP for every crop, he said by opening the Wagah and Hussainiwala borders, the country’s agricultural labourers could be rescued from the economic crisis. He also sought more sops for the business class and work for labourers and truck operators.
On the occasion, a play was staged by Natak Mandali Malwa Group which revived the memory of the Delhi Movement.
Earlier, Kirti Kisan Union district president Santokh Singh Sandhu started the conference by commemorating his departed friend Santokh Singh Taggar. A two minute silence was observed in memory of Taggar and martyrs of the Delhi movement. Taggar’s wife was also honoured on the occasion.
