Samyukt Kisan Morcha Labels New Agricultural Marketing Policy as More Dangerous Than Repealed Farm Laws

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has criticised the new draft of the National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing (NPFAM), labelling it more harmful than the previously repealed farm laws. According to SKM, this policy could undermine state governments' federal rights and harm farmers, agricultural workers, small producers, and traders by not ensuring minimum support prices (MSP) or wages.

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Concerns Over Federal Rights and MSP

SKM argues that the NPFAM lacks provisions for a remunerative MSP, a key recommendation from the National Commission on Farmers led by M.S. Swaminathan. This omission is significant in current political discussions. The proposed reforms threaten state control over agriculture, land, industry, and markets, which are constitutionally under state jurisdiction.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has also expressed concerns about the NPFAM. He suggested that the Centre is attempting to reintroduce elements of the repealed farm laws through this new framework. Mann's comments came during a press conference where he voiced his opposition to the draft policy.

Proposed Reforms and Technological Integration

The NPFAM aims to create a value chain-based framework integrating private and public sectors using technologies like Digital Public Infrastructure, blockchain, machine learning, and AI. However, SKM warns that these reforms could lead to deregulation, allowing corporate agribusinesses to dominate production, processing, and marketing sectors.

SKM plans to hold Kisan Mahapanchayats in Haryana's Tohana and Punjab's Moga on January 4 and 9. These gatherings will pass resolutions to continue mass protests until NPFAM is repealed. The organisation emphasises the need for political parties to clarify their positions on this policy.

SKM has praised the Punjab government and Chief Minister Mann for opposing the NPFAM. They believe that rejecting this framework is crucial for protecting farmers' interests and maintaining state rights over agricultural policies.