Navjot Singh Sidhu supports farmers; criticises government’s agricultural policies

Aman Sood

Chandigarh, February 18

Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu on Sunday voiced support for farmers’ demands in the ongoing ‘Dilli Chalo’ march while criticising the government’s agricultural policies.

Sidhu highlighted the crucial role played by Punjab farmers in the success of the White and Green Revolutions and said that their contributions cannot be ignored.

Addressing a press conference, he said that lack of improvements in farmer incomes despite promises of doubling them is far from reality, citing soaring prices of essential commodities like gas cylinders.

With agriculture employing 50 per cent of the workforce but contributing only 13 per cent to the GDP, he called for urgent measures to revitalise the sector.

Sidhu urged the government to allow farmers to explore international markets and introduce cargo flights to over 30 countries to facilitate the export of Indian agricultural goods. He said if international markets were open for farmers, it would mean more money to them as international rates are much above than domestic prices.

He accused Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann of empty promises and inadequate action on behalf of farmers.

Sidhu added that labourers, particularly Dalits, lack adequate support and representation. Highlighting the disappearance of dams, market cooperatives, and RDF; he called for measures to help farmers to become traders and increase their earnings.