New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Shri Rahul Gandhi asked questions directly from the Government. Why has the promise made to farmers in 2021—regarding a legally guaranteed MSP set at 50% above C2 costs—not yet been implemented? Evading a direct response, the government merely reiterated its existing MSP policy.

The government also admitted to pressuring states to discontinue MSP bonuses—a move it justified, without offering any rationale, in the name of ‘national priorities.’ Another serious question: the trade agreement with the US mentions reducing ‘Non-trade barriers’. Does this imply undermining the MSP and government procurement? The government is evading this question as well.

The Modi government has no intention of fulfilling the promises made to farmers; for the sake of its own self-interest, it is even prepared to sacrifice Indian agriculture. We will continue to raise our voices, both inside and outside Parliament, to defend the rights of farmers and the MSP.