Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Sunday said that the people of the state have a history of setting aside political differences and standing united to protect its interests.

The remarks were made at the all-party meeting convened to chalk out the state's legal and political strategy on the Cauvery water-sharing dispute with Tamil Nadu, in the wake of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's (CWRC's) direction to release 3,500 cusecs of water daily for 15 days, which was later upheld by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA).


Cauvery water row: DMK stages protest | 'TVK neglecting farmers' issues' 

Onion farmers in Nashik are facing a severe economic crisis as prices crash to as low as ₹1 per kilogram. The ongoing West Asia conflict has disrupted export routes and demand, hitting Indian onion shipments hard. Farmers say they are struggling to recover production costs, while exporters report heavy losses. The situation has raised fresh concerns over how global geopolitical tensions are directly impacting rural livelihoods and India’s agricultural economy.

West Asia War Hits Indian Onion Exports, Farmers Face Major Losses

The number of garage forecourts without fuel in Ireland could rise to 500 by Friday night if blockades continue, according to the CEO of Fuels for Ireland.

Kevin McPartlan said more than 100 garages are currently without fuel but said the number will rise if the situation is not resolved.

Ireland Fuel Protests: Major Roads Across Ireland Blocked by Farmers & Freight Workers

Zimbabwean farmers are appealing to the United States for assistance after years of unpaid compensation following land seizures during the country’s controversial land reform program. Many farmers claim their losses remain unresolved despite previous agreements, affecting livelihoods and agricultural output. The plea highlights ongoing disputes over property rights and international pressure for fair compensation to restore economic stability in Zimbabwe’s farming sector.

Zimbabwe Farmers Seek US Help Over Unpaid Compensation |

India and the United States have signed an interim framework for a trade deal, and that has triggered protests from farmer groups across the country.
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal has maintained that no key agricultural sector has been opened. So if core crops are protected, where is the tension coming from?
To understand that, we must first look at the structural gap between Indian and American agriculture.

Soybean Oil Imports May Pressure Domestic Growers

European farmers took to the streets across Ireland, France, Poland, Belgium, and beyond in early January 2026 to protest the EU-Mercosur trade deal's provisional approval. Thousands of tractors converged on cities like Paris and Athlone, decrying an influx of 99,000 tonnes of cheap South American beef that could undercut local standards and livelihoods.


 European Farmers Out on the Streets Against the Eu-Mercosur Trade Deal

French farmers escalated protests across the country on January 7, 2026, erecting roadblocks with tractors at major highways and roundabouts, dumping manure at prefectures, and targeting EU offices over the controversial Mercosur trade agreement that would flood markets with cheaper South American meat and produce, threatening dairy, beef, and poultry sectors already reeling from low prices and high input costs.


French Farmers Revolt Over Mercosur Trade Deal, Block Roads in Tax, Trade Fury 

Farmers across France have taken out tractor rallies in protest against the EU’s trade deal with South American countries, particularly the Mercosur agreement, which they fear will undermine local agriculture. Anger has also grown over cow culling policies, with farmers arguing that these measures and the trade deal threaten their livelihoods and food security.


French Farmers Stage Tractor Rallies Over Mercosur Deal

French farmers are protesting the culling of over 200 cows after a single case of disease sparked the mass slaughter. The move has caused outrage among farmers, who are demanding alternative solutions to prevent further culls and protect their livelihoods.


French Farmers Protest Culling of Over 200 Cows Over Single Disease Case

Farmers across the United States are facing a growing threat from black vultures, which are attacking and killing newborn calves. Once rare in northern states, these aggressive birds are expanding their range due to warming winters. Ranchers say the attacks are causing major livestock losses, raising concerns about climate change and wildlife management.

Farmers battle black vultures killing calves as warming winters push them north

During a refugee program initiated by US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump-0">Donald Trump</a>, 59 white South Africans landed in the US on May 12, as Trump stressed that there has been racial discrimination against Afrikaners.&nbsp;
As they arrived at the Dulles International Airport, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau welcomed them, saying, "We respect what you have had to deal with these last few years."
&ldquo;We respect the long tradition of your people and what you have accomplished over the years,&rdquo; he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-halts-all-federal-funding-to-terrible-south-africa-invites-farmers-to-us-assures-rapid-citizenship-8831883" rel="dofollow">Trump halts all federal funding to 'terrible' South Africa; invites farmers to US, assures 'rapid citizenship'</a>
Earlier on Monday, Trump during a news conference, reiterated that white people have been facing systematic violence since the end of apartheid, or white minority rule, in South Africa.
However, some critics argued that Trump's decision is racially selective and politically driven.&nbsp;
The US president also claimed that the Afrikaner farmers were being targeted through violent attacks and dispossession of land. In March, Trump took to Truth Social, stressing that South Africa is being "terrible" to farmers in their country, adding that South African farmers are invited into the US.&nbsp;
He also stopped all federal funding to South Africa in a big move.&nbsp;
Trump in a bold statement on Truth Social, said that they are "confiscating their land and farms and MUCH WORSE THAN THAT".&nbsp;
"South Africa is being terrible, plus, to long-time Farmers in the country. A bad place to be right now, and we are stopping all Federal Funding," Trump said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-strengthens-us-uae-ties-with-ai-partnership-and-200-billion-in-deals-9074664">Trump strengthens US-UAE ties with AI partnership and $200 billion in deals</a>
<h2>South Africa prez calls them 'cowards'</h2>
South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa called the group of 59 people "cowards", saying "they'll be back soon".
Ramaphosa further said those who wanted to leave were not happy with efforts to address the inequities of the apartheid past, terming their relocation a "sad moment for them".
"As South Africans, we are resilient. We don't run away from our problems. We must stay here and solve our problems. When you run away you are a coward, and that's a real cowardly act," he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-insists-ukraine-russia-peace-wont-happen-until-he-and-vladimir-putin-get-together-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-in-turkey-9073995">Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together'</a>

US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau welcomed them, saying, "We respect what you have had to deal with these last few years." WORLD

During a refugee program initiated by US President Donald Trump, 59 white South Africans landed in the US on May 12, as Trump stressed that there has been racial discrimination against Afrikaners. As they arrived at the Dulles International Airport, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau welcomed them, saying, "We respect what you have had to deal with these last few years." “We respect the long tradition of your people and what you have accomplished over the years,” he said. Also read: Trump halts all federal funding to 'terrible' South Africa; invites farmers to US, assures 'rapid citizenship' Earlier on Monday, Trump during a news conference, reiterated that white people have been facing systematic violence since the end of apartheid, or white minority rule, in South Africa. However, some critics argued that Trump's decision is racially selective and politically driven. The US president also claimed that the Afrikaner farmers were being targeted through violent attacks and dispossession of land. In March, Trump took to Truth Social, stressing that South Africa is being "terrible" to farmers in their country, adding that South African farmers are invited into the US. He also stopped all federal funding to South Africa in a big move. Trump in a bold statement on Truth Social, said that they are "confiscating their land and farms and MUCH WORSE THAN THAT". "South Africa is being terrible, plus, to long-time Farmers in the country. A bad place to be right now, and we are stopping all Federal Funding," Trump said. Also read: Trump strengthens US-UAE ties with AI partnership and $200 billion in deals South Africa prez calls them 'cowards' South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa called the group of 59 people "cowards", saying "they'll be back soon". Ramaphosa further said those who wanted to leave were not happy with efforts to address the inequities of the apartheid past, terming their relocation a "sad moment for them". "As South Africans, we are resilient. We don't run away from our problems. We must stay here and solve our problems. When you run away you are a coward, and that's a real cowardly act," he added. Also read: Trump insists Ukraine-Russia peace won't happen until he and Putin 'get together'

Trump offers refuge to white South Africans — President Ramaphosa slams them as ‘cowards’

In droughted Kenya, the farmers are turning back to traditional seeds to fight climate change. They're facing some unpredictable weather and rising crop failures. Communities are embracing indigenous varieties that are more resilient and adapted to local conditions.

Kenya: Farmers turn to indigenous seeds to fight drought & crop failure

India's ethanol industry has emerged as a standout success story in the global clean energy landscape, having achieved near 20% ethanol blending in petrol ahead of the 2025 target. In a significant step towards shaping the future of the sector, a high-level roundtable convened on Wednesday (Apr 9) brought together senior government officials, ethanol producers, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on the next phase of India&rsquo;s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme.
Thought leadership report, a strategic roadmap highlighting the critical role of ethanol in advancing India&rsquo;s triple mandate of energy security, rural development, and climate action.
<h2>India&rsquo;s ethanol milestones: A platform for progress</h2>
From achieving 10% ethanol blending ahead of schedule in 2022 to reaching a remarkable 19.6% blending in January 2025, India has demonstrated its capability to scale clean energy solutions rapidly. The ethanol blending initiative has already saved over $130 billion in foreign exchange, substituted nearly 185 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil, and reduced 557 lakh metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
The report also addressed myths around India&rsquo;s food security, showing it is a grain surplus country which can cater to the needs of food and ethanol production without causing scarcity.
Every year, India has a surplus of around 165 lakh metric tonnes of grain that could be used for ethanol.
<h2>Opportunities and challenges: Charting a sustainable path forward</h2>
The thought leadership report identifies grain-based ethanol, particularly from maize and surplus grains like broken rice, as a key lever for sustainable expansion. It emphasises the environmental and economic advantages of maize&mdash;India&rsquo;s least water-intensive feedstock with strong ethanol conversion efficiency. The report projects that surplus grain could be utilised annually to generate over $350 billion in direct payments to farmers, reinforcing rural prosperity and arresting urban migration.
<h2>However, to maintain this momentum, the sector faces critical challenges:</h2>
<ul class="custom-disc">
<li>
Feedstock availability and price pressures, especially with rising maize costs and inter-sector competition.
</li>
<li>
Ethanol procurement pricing, which has not kept pace with feedstock cost increases.
</li>
<li>
Falling by-product margins, such as Distiller&rsquo;s Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), impacting distillery viability.
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Strategic Policy Recommendations</h2>
<h3>The roundtable and report call for urgent, actionable reforms, including:</h3>
<ul class="custom-disc">
<li>
Scaling up maize cultivation across the country.
</li>
<li>
Introducing dynamic pricing for grain ethanol to address feedstock cost increase.
</li>
<li>
Ensuring an uninterrupted supply of damaged, broken, and surplus FCI rice until maize production ramps up.
</li>
<li>
Promoting strong domestic market linkages for ethanol by-products like DDGS.
</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;We understand the current challenges of India&rsquo;s grain ethanol story industry. There is a roadmap being planned; it will address multiple issues &ndash;feedstock availability and supply of broken and surplus rice from FCI, scope for E100/E93/E85, possibility of SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), etc. We need to work together on this,&rdquo; said Ashwini Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution.
&ldquo;Ethanol Blending program (EBP)&rdquo; is a great step forward by the GOI to ensure India&rsquo;s future energy security, rural development, increasing farmer&rsquo;s income manifold and reducing carbon footprint in the environment. In the last two years, grain ethanol industry has grown &amp; become the largest contributor to the EBP of India. Still, India being a grain surplus country - the grain ethanol industry requires timely support from Government of India with right &nbsp;policy initiatives &amp; direction to grow and thrive in the future," said, Abhinav Singal, Treasurer, Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA).
"India's ethanol success is a result of bold policy decisions and collaborative industry efforts. The grain-based ethanol industry, in particular, holds immense potential to drive rural economic development, enhance farmer incomes, and ensure year-round ethanol production," said Sanjay Ganjoo, Director General, IFGE (Indian Federation of Green Energy).
"It must be actively promoted through supportive policies, assured feedstock supply, and fair pricing mechanisms. This roundtable is a step toward building consensus among stakeholders and crafting actionable strategies that will ensure long-term sustainability and growth of the ethanol sector. IFGE remains committed to enabling a robust and future-ready ethanol ecosystem that supports India&rsquo;s clean energy transition and national energy security," Ganjoo added.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

India's ethanol industry has emerged as a standout success story in the global clean energy landscape, having achieved near 20% ethanol blending in petrol ahead of the 2025 target. India news

India's ethanol industry has emerged as a standout success story in the global clean energy landscape, having achieved near 20% ethanol blending in petrol ahead of the 2025 target. In a significant step towards shaping the future of the sector, a high-level roundtable convened on Wednesday (Apr 9) brought together senior government officials, ethanol producers, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on the next phase of India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme. Thought leadership report, a strategic roadmap highlighting the critical role of ethanol in advancing India’s triple mandate of energy security, rural development, and climate action. India’s ethanol milestones: A platform for progress From achieving 10% ethanol blending ahead of schedule in 2022 to reaching a remarkable 19.6% blending in January 2025, India has demonstrated its capability to scale clean energy solutions rapidly. The ethanol blending initiative has already saved over $130 billion in foreign exchange, substituted nearly 185 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil, and reduced 557 lakh metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions. The report also addressed myths around India’s food security, showing it is a grain surplus country which can cater to the needs of food and ethanol production without causing scarcity. Every year, India has a surplus of around 165 lakh metric tonnes of grain that could be used for ethanol. Opportunities and challenges: Charting a sustainable path forward The thought leadership report identifies grain-based ethanol, particularly from maize and surplus grains like broken rice, as a key lever for sustainable expansion. It emphasises the environmental and economic advantages of maize—India’s least water-intensive feedstock with strong ethanol conversion efficiency. The report projects that surplus grain could be utilised annually to generate over $350 billion in direct payments to farmers, reinforcing rural prosperity and arresting urban migration. However, to maintain this momentum, the sector faces critical challenges: Feedstock availability and price pressures, especially with rising maize costs and inter-sector competition. Ethanol procurement pricing, which has not kept pace with feedstock cost increases. Falling by-product margins, such as Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), impacting distillery viability. Strategic Policy Recommendations The roundtable and report call for urgent, actionable reforms, including: Scaling up maize cultivation across the country. Introducing dynamic pricing for grain ethanol to address feedstock cost increase. Ensuring an uninterrupted supply of damaged, broken, and surplus FCI rice until maize production ramps up. Promoting strong domestic market linkages for ethanol by-products like DDGS. “We understand the current challenges of India’s grain ethanol story industry. There is a roadmap being planned; it will address multiple issues –feedstock availability and supply of broken and surplus rice from FCI, scope for E100/E93/E85, possibility of SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), etc. We need to work together on this,” said Ashwini Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution. “Ethanol Blending program (EBP)” is a great step forward by the GOI to ensure India’s future energy security, rural development, increasing farmer’s income manifold and reducing carbon footprint in the environment. In the last two years, grain ethanol industry has grown & become the largest contributor to the EBP of India. Still, India being a grain surplus country - the grain ethanol industry requires timely support from Government of India with right policy initiatives & direction to grow and thrive in the future," said, Abhinav Singal, Treasurer, Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA). "India's ethanol success is a result of bold policy decisions and collaborative industry efforts. The grain-based ethanol industry, in particular, holds immense potential to drive rural economic development, enhance farmer incomes, and ensure year-round ethanol production," said Sanjay Ganjoo, Director General, IFGE (Indian Federation of Green Energy). "It must be actively promoted through supportive policies, assured feedstock supply, and fair pricing mechanisms. This roundtable is a step toward building consensus among stakeholders and crafting actionable strategies that will ensure long-term sustainability and growth of the ethanol sector. IFGE remains committed to enabling a robust and future-ready ethanol ecosystem that supports India’s clean energy transition and national energy security," Ganjoo added.

Grain ethanol has potential to boost Indian farmers' income by $350 billion: Report

Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal finally ended his indefinite hunger strike on Sunday.&nbsp; Dallewal, who is in his 70s and is cancer-stricken, had started his fast unto death on November 26 last year to press for various demands of farmers, including a legal guarantee on the minimum support price for crops.
Dallewal announced that he was ending his indefinite fast at a &lsquo;Kisan Mahapanchayat&rsquo; organised at Sirhind in Fatehgarh Sahib district of Punjab. &ldquo;You (farmers) all have asked me to end the fast unto death. I am indebted to you for taking care of the agitation. I respect your sentiments. I accept your order,&rdquo; said Dallewal while addressing the farmers.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/always-write-letters-to-me-sign-off-in-english-wheres-tamil-pride-pm-modi-takes-jibe-at-mk-stalin-8932261">'Always write letters to me &amp; sign off in English, where's Tamil pride,' PM Modi takes jibe at MK Stalin</a>
On Saturday, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu had appealed to Dallewal to end his fast.
Dallewal is a senior leader of a joint forum of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM).&nbsp;
After the Centre invited the farmer leaders for talks in January, Dallewal started taking medical aid at the Khanauri protest site but did not end his fast.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-rahul-gandhi-opposing-offshore-drilling-economic-benefits-vs-politics-8910893" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics</a>
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had said in a post on X, &ldquo;The ongoing dialogue between the representatives of the Government of India and the representatives of farmers&rsquo; organisations regarding their demands is continuing. Farmer leader Shri Jagjit Singh Dallewal has now returned from hospital and we wish him a speedy recovery. We also request him to end his hunger strike and we will meet with the representatives of the farmers' organisations for talks at 11 am on May 4 as per the already decided date."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m95lc7ev-5v1oc9oa-m7gok02h">
भारत सरकार के प्रतिनिधियों और किसान संगठनों के प्रतिनिधियों के बीच उनकी मांगों को लेकर चल रहा बातचीत का सिलसिला लगातार जारी है। किसान नेता श्री जगजीत सिंह डल्लेवाल अब अस्पताल से वापस आ चुके हैं और हम उनके अतिशीघ्र पूर्ण रूप से स्वस्थ होने की कामना करते हैं। साथ ही हम उनसे&hellip;
&mdash; Shivraj Singh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChouhanShivraj/status/1908474883383631905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-us-official-heads-to-pakistan-with-focus-on-critical-minerals-deal-8930388">Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation</a>
A similar appeal was made by Union minister Bittu on Saturday. &ldquo;Your health is more important, and your life is precious for the people of Punjab as your leadership will always be needed for the struggle of farmers and farm labourers,&rdquo; Bittu said. He said all BJP ministers and senior leaders had inquired about Dallewal during the Lok Sabha session and extended their wishes for his well-being.

India News: Dallewal, who is in his 70s and is cancer-stricken, had started his fast unto death on November 26 last year to press for various demands of farmers, including a legal guarantee on minimum support price for crops.

Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal finally ended his indefinite hunger strike on Sunday. Dallewal, who is in his 70s and is cancer-stricken, had started his fast unto death on November 26 last year to press for various demands of farmers, including a legal guarantee on the minimum support price for crops. Dallewal announced that he was ending his indefinite fast at a ‘Kisan Mahapanchayat’ organised at Sirhind in Fatehgarh Sahib district of Punjab. “You (farmers) all have asked me to end the fast unto death. I am indebted to you for taking care of the agitation. I respect your sentiments. I accept your order,” said Dallewal while addressing the farmers. Also Read | 'Always write letters to me & sign off in English, where's Tamil pride,' PM Modi takes jibe at MK Stalin On Saturday, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu had appealed to Dallewal to end his fast. Dallewal is a senior leader of a joint forum of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM). After the Centre invited the farmer leaders for talks in January, Dallewal started taking medical aid at the Khanauri protest site but did not end his fast. Also Read | Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had said in a post on X, “The ongoing dialogue between the representatives of the Government of India and the representatives of farmers’ organisations regarding their demands is continuing. Farmer leader Shri Jagjit Singh Dallewal has now returned from hospital and we wish him a speedy recovery. We also request him to end his hunger strike and we will meet with the representatives of the farmers' organisations for talks at 11 am on May 4 as per the already decided date." भारत सरकार के प्रतिनिधियों और किसान संगठनों के प्रतिनिधियों के बीच उनकी मांगों को लेकर चल रहा बातचीत का सिलसिला लगातार जारी है। किसान नेता श्री जगजीत सिंह डल्लेवाल अब अस्पताल से वापस आ चुके हैं और हम उनके अतिशीघ्र पूर्ण रूप से स्वस्थ होने की कामना करते हैं। साथ ही हम उनसे… — Shivraj Singh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) April 5, 2025 Also Read | Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation A similar appeal was made by Union minister Bittu on Saturday. “Your health is more important, and your life is precious for the people of Punjab as your leadership will always be needed for the struggle of farmers and farm labourers,” Bittu said. He said all BJP ministers and senior leaders had inquired about Dallewal during the Lok Sabha session and extended their wishes for his well-being.

Punjab farmers’ leader Jagjit Dallewal ends his fast unto death after 4 months

A high drama unfolded in Punjab on Wednesday. Farmers clashed with police personnel in Mohali after talks with the government on the demand for legal guarantees for MSP (Minimum Support Price) remained inconclusive. The Punjab police detained 200 farmers along with farm leaders Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher, who were spearheading the protest at the Punjab Haryana borders since February last year. Dallewal, who is in his 70s, has been on an indefinite fast. Earlier on Wednesday, the cancer-stricken farmer arrived in an ambulance for a meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and other central government ministers.

Farmers clash with Punjab police: Police razes protest site, removes farmers from state borders

Farmers Clash with Punjab Police,  Dallewal, Pandher and 200 others detained

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 7) stressed that South Africa is being "terrible" to farmers in their country, adding that South African farmers are invited into the US.&nbsp;
Trump in a bold statement on Truth Social, announced to stop all federal funding to South Africa, stressing that they are "confiscating their land and farms and MUCH WORSE THAN THAT".&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114121529754059509/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

"South Africa is being terrible, plus, to long time Farmers in the country," he posted.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-trump-wanted-original-us-declaration-of-independence-as-oval-office-decoration-what-is-it-8831412">'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office&nbsp;decoration.&nbsp;What&nbsp;is&nbsp;it?</a>
"A bad place to be right now, and we are stopping all Federal Funding," Trump added.
<iframe width="600" height="" style="max-width: 100%; border: 0;" src="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114121529754059509/embed" class="truthsocial-embed" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<script src="https://truthsocial.com/embed.js" async="async"></script>

<h2>Farmers with their family to get citizenship&nbsp;</h2>
The US president said that any farmer, who is willing to come to the US with their family, will be invited to the US "with a rapid pathway to Citizenship."
"This process will begin immediately!," he stressed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-who-once-said-grabem-by-pxxsy-is-in-nobel-peace-race-with-feminist-icon-gisele-pelicot-8830962">Donald Trump, who once said 'grab em by p**sy', is in Nobel Peace race with feminist icon&nbsp;Gisele&nbsp;Pelicot</a>
US President Trump has been raising concerns to protect South Africa's White farmers. This comes as South Africa has a contentious law that allows their government to expropriate land &ndash; without compensation in some cases.&nbsp;
This has triggered aid cuts by the US and outbursts from Trump.&nbsp;
Notably, South Africa is the largest beneficiary of the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), a US trade agreement that provides preferential duty-free access to US markets for eligible Sub-Saharan African nations.
Moreover, some of the US lawmakers want those benefits withdrawn during AGOA's review this year.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-trump-hopes-nasa-astronauts-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-love-each-other-8830063">Trump calls Sunita Williams 'woman with wild hair', hopes she and Butch Wilmore 'love each other'</a>
<h2>'No starlink because...'</h2>
Trump's closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk on Friday took to X and claimed that Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa because he is "not black".&nbsp;
Musk's post was in response to another post that cited South African businessman and right-wing political campaigner Rob Hersov who told a podcast that South Africa was "on the edge of a socialist abyss."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greatest-era-in-us-history-trump-shares-cinematic-compilation-of-his-45-days-in-office-8830857">'Greatest era in US history': Trump shares cinematic compilation of his 45 days in office</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump announced to stop all federal funding to South Africa, stressing that they are "confiscating their land and farms and MUCH WORSE THAN THAT".

US President Donald Trump on Friday (March 7) stressed that South Africa is being "terrible" to farmers in their country, adding that South African farmers are invited into the US. Trump in a bold statement on Truth Social, announced to stop all federal funding to South Africa, stressing that they are "confiscating their land and farms and MUCH WORSE THAN THAT". "South Africa is being terrible, plus, to long time Farmers in the country," he posted. Also read: 'Alarming': Trump wanted 'original' US Declaration of Independence as Oval Office decoration. What is it? "A bad place to be right now, and we are stopping all Federal Funding," Trump added. Farmers with their family to get citizenship The US president said that any farmer, who is willing to come to the US with their family, will be invited to the US "with a rapid pathway to Citizenship." "This process will begin immediately!," he stressed. Also read: Donald Trump, who once said 'grab em by p**sy', is in Nobel Peace race with feminist icon Gisele Pelicot US President Trump has been raising concerns to protect South Africa's White farmers. This comes as South Africa has a contentious law that allows their government to expropriate land – without compensation in some cases. This has triggered aid cuts by the US and outbursts from Trump. Notably, South Africa is the largest beneficiary of the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), a US trade agreement that provides preferential duty-free access to US markets for eligible Sub-Saharan African nations. Moreover, some of the US lawmakers want those benefits withdrawn during AGOA's review this year. Also read: Trump calls Sunita Williams 'woman with wild hair', hopes she and Butch Wilmore 'love each other' 'No starlink because...' Trump's closest ally and billionaire Elon Musk on Friday took to X and claimed that Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa because he is "not black". Musk's post was in response to another post that cited South African businessman and right-wing political campaigner Rob Hersov who told a podcast that South Africa was "on the edge of a socialist abyss." Also read: 'Greatest era in US history': Trump shares cinematic compilation of his 45 days in office (With inputs from agencies)

Trump halts all federal funding to 'terrible' South Africa; invites farmers to US, assures 'rapid citizenship'

The protesting farmers and the Union government led by Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a fresh round of talks on Saturday evening, in a bid to end a year-long deadlock over a range of demands, including a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Prices (MSPs).

Agriculture minister meets protesting farmer unions, farm unions adamant on their MSP demand

Researchers across Africa are employing artificial intelligence to diagnose crop diseases and trace pests. Watch in for more details!

Farmers use 'AI' to diagnose crop diseases

Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 39 days, has appealed to farmers to reach the Khanauri protest site at the Punjab-Haryana border in large numbers on Saturday to strengthen the fight seeking a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
Farmers, on a warpath against the BJP-led Centre over their demands, last week called for a "Kisan Mahapanchayat" at Khanauri.
In a 70-second video message released on Friday, Dallewal said he is appealing to the people of the country, who are part of the fight for a legal guarantee on the MSP, "that they must reach Khanauri as I want to have your darshan". &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; The farmers, under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-leader-dallewal-to-take-medical-aid-if-centre-agrees-to-talk-punjab-tells-supreme-court-8581124" rel="dofollow">Also read: India: Farmer leader Dallewal to take medical aid if Centre agrees to talk, Punjab tells SC</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal (70) has so far refused to take any medical aid despite his prolonged fasting, which has caused his health to deteriorate. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; The Punjab government has been making efforts to persuade Dallewal to take medical aid if he does not wish to break his fast, but he has so far remained firm in his stance. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said on Thursday that a team of government doctors is regularly monitoring Dallewal's health.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abetment-to-commit-suicide-sc-warns-punjab-govt-to-shift-farmer-leader-dallewal-to-hospital-8573388" rel="dofollow">Also read: 'Abetment to suicide': SC warns Punjab govt to shift farmer leader Dallewal to hospital</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar told reporters at Khanauri that Dallewal will speak for two to three minutes at Saturday's event to send an important message. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Another senior farmer leader, Sarwan Singh Pandher, who is the coordinator of the two fora that are spearheading the agitation at Shambhu and Khanauri, said the Centre continues to adopt a "stubborn attitude" and is not resolving the issue.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-cant-centre-say-it-will-consider-genuine-grievances-of-farmers-asks-supreme-court-8586180" rel="dofollow">Also read: 'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers,' asks Supreme Court</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Asked about holding talks with the protesting farmers to end the logjam, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Wednesday that the government will act in accordance with the Supreme Court's instructions on the ongoing farmers' protest at the Punjab-Haryana border. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; "Our demands pertain to the Centre, this issue is not of the courts. The (Narendra) Modi government should directly talk (to the protesting farmers)," Pandher said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; During an ongoing hearing, a Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan clarified on Thursday that it has never directed to break Dallewal's fast but is only concerned about his health and wants medical aid to be provided to him urgently. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Farmer leaders had earlier said Dallewal had not eaten anything during his fast and was surviving only on water.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-increased-crop-insurance-allocation-and-fertiliser-subsidy-for-farmers-8583830" rel="dofollow">Also read: PM Modi announces increased crop insurance allocation, fertiliser subsidy for farmers</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Kohar, who has been associated with Dallewal for long, had recently said the latter has sat on a hunger strike on five occasions in the past but not for such a prolonged period. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal had earlier sat on a fast in support of farmers' demands in March 2018, January 2019, January 2021, November 2022 and June 2023. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Several Punjab ministers, leaders from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and opposition Congress, besides farmer leaders and other prominent personalities, have paid visits to Dallewal at Khanauri and enquired about his health. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal will break his fast only if their demands are accepted by the Centre, farmer leaders had earlier said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal wrote an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his hunger strike, likening the MSP for farmers to the fundamental right to live. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; "I have decided to sacrifice my life to stop the deaths of farmers. I hope that after my death, the central government will wake up from its slumber and move forward towards fulfilling our 13 demands, including a law on the MSP," he wrote to Modi. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal, the president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta Sidhupur), hails from Dallewal village in Punjab's Faridkot district. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Before announcing his fast unto death, Dallewal transferred his properties to his son, daughter-in-law and grandson. His wife died in January last year. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal's BKU (Ekta Sidhupur) was part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, which spearheaded a farmers' stir in 2020 against three contentious agriculture laws of the Centre that have since been repealed. But it broke away after SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal formed the Samyukta Samaj Morcha to contest the 2022 Punjab Assembly polls. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Dallewal later formed the SKM (Non-Political) by involving like-minded farmer leaders.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: In a 70-second video message, Dallewal said he is appealing to the people of the country, "that they must reach Khanauri as I want to have your darshan".

Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 39 days, has appealed to farmers to reach the Khanauri protest site at the Punjab-Haryana border in large numbers on Saturday to strengthen the fight seeking a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Farmers, on a warpath against the BJP-led Centre over their demands, last week called for a "Kisan Mahapanchayat" at Khanauri. In a 70-second video message released on Friday, Dallewal said he is appealing to the people of the country, who are part of the fight for a legal guarantee on the MSP, "that they must reach Khanauri as I want to have your darshan". The farmers, under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. Also read: India: Farmer leader Dallewal to take medical aid if Centre agrees to talk, Punjab tells SC Dallewal (70) has so far refused to take any medical aid despite his prolonged fasting, which has caused his health to deteriorate. The Punjab government has been making efforts to persuade Dallewal to take medical aid if he does not wish to break his fast, but he has so far remained firm in his stance. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said on Thursday that a team of government doctors is regularly monitoring Dallewal's health. Also read: 'Abetment to suicide': SC warns Punjab govt to shift farmer leader Dallewal to hospital Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar told reporters at Khanauri that Dallewal will speak for two to three minutes at Saturday's event to send an important message. Another senior farmer leader, Sarwan Singh Pandher, who is the coordinator of the two fora that are spearheading the agitation at Shambhu and Khanauri, said the Centre continues to adopt a "stubborn attitude" and is not resolving the issue. Also read: 'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers,' asks Supreme Court Asked about holding talks with the protesting farmers to end the logjam, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Wednesday that the government will act in accordance with the Supreme Court's instructions on the ongoing farmers' protest at the Punjab-Haryana border. "Our demands pertain to the Centre, this issue is not of the courts. The (Narendra) Modi government should directly talk (to the protesting farmers)," Pandher said. During an ongoing hearing, a Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan clarified on Thursday that it has never directed to break Dallewal's fast but is only concerned about his health and wants medical aid to be provided to him urgently. Farmer leaders had earlier said Dallewal had not eaten anything during his fast and was surviving only on water. Also read: PM Modi announces increased crop insurance allocation, fertiliser subsidy for farmers Kohar, who has been associated with Dallewal for long, had recently said the latter has sat on a hunger strike on five occasions in the past but not for such a prolonged period. Dallewal had earlier sat on a fast in support of farmers' demands in March 2018, January 2019, January 2021, November 2022 and June 2023. Several Punjab ministers, leaders from the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and opposition Congress, besides farmer leaders and other prominent personalities, have paid visits to Dallewal at Khanauri and enquired about his health. Dallewal will break his fast only if their demands are accepted by the Centre, farmer leaders had earlier said. Dallewal wrote an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his hunger strike, likening the MSP for farmers to the fundamental right to live. "I have decided to sacrifice my life to stop the deaths of farmers. I hope that after my death, the central government will wake up from its slumber and move forward towards fulfilling our 13 demands, including a law on the MSP," he wrote to Modi. Dallewal, the president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta Sidhupur), hails from Dallewal village in Punjab's Faridkot district. Before announcing his fast unto death, Dallewal transferred his properties to his son, daughter-in-law and grandson. His wife died in January last year. Dallewal's BKU (Ekta Sidhupur) was part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, which spearheaded a farmers' stir in 2020 against three contentious agriculture laws of the Centre that have since been repealed. But it broke away after SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal formed the Samyukta Samaj Morcha to contest the 2022 Punjab Assembly polls. Dallewal later formed the SKM (Non-Political) by involving like-minded farmer leaders. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Dallewal urges to farmers to reach Khanauri protest site on Jan 4 for 'Kisan Mahapanchayat'

The Supreme Court on Thursday heard a petition related to the ongoing farmers' protest and questioned the Centre for not making a statement that they would consider genuine demands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=farmers+protest" rel="dofollow">protesting farmers </a>and their doors are open.&nbsp;
The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, questioned Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.&nbsp;
"Mr Mehta, you have been there for all these days, why your client cannot make a statement that we will consider the genuine and that we are open to genuine grievances of farmers&hellip; Our doors are open&hellip; Why can&rsquo;t the Central Government also make a statement?," Justice Bhuyan questioned.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-increased-crop-insurance-allocation-and-fertiliser-subsidy-for-farmers-8583830" rel="dofollow">PM Modi announces increased crop insurance allocation, fertiliser subsidy for farmers</a>
&ldquo;Your Lordships are perhaps not aware of several factors which are weighing in. Therefore, right now we are confining (ourselves) to one person&rsquo;s health,&rdquo; Mehta said, referring to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on fast-unto-death for more than a month now.
&ldquo;If the State fails, then the Union will,&rdquo; the Bench said.&nbsp;
It further posted the matter for further hearing to be held on Monday.
<h2>SC slams Punjab govt for creating 'false impression'</h2>
The apex court said that there is a deliberate attempt in the media by the Punjab government to create the impression that the court is pressuring Dallewal to break his fast.&nbsp;
Farmers&rsquo; leader Jagjit Sigh Dallewal, who has been on fast-unto-death since November 26, has refused to receive medical help.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-leader-dallewal-to-take-medical-aid-if-centre-agrees-to-talk-punjab-tells-supreme-court-8581124" rel="dofollow">India: Farmer leader Dallewal to take medical aid if Centre agrees to talk, Punjab tells SC</a>
&ldquo;There is a deliberate attempt in the media by your state government officers to give an impression that the court is pressuring him to break the fast. Our direction was not to break his fast. We only said that let his health be taken care of and he could continue his peaceful protest even when he is hospitalised. You have to persuade him from this angle,&rdquo; the bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan told Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh.
The Justices said that shifting him to the hospital does not mean that he will not continue his fast.&nbsp;
There are medical facilities that will ensure that no harm is caused to his life. That is our only concern. His life is precious as a farm leader. He is not aligned to any political ideologies, and he is taking care of only the farmers&rsquo; cause,&rdquo; Justice Kant said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-farmers-call-for-kisan-mahapanchayat-at-khanauri-protest-site-on-january-4-8574225" rel="dofollow">Punjab farmers call for 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' on January 4</a>
He stressed that once Dallewal's health is taken care of, he can continue the fast.&nbsp;
"Once we are satisfied that his life is not in danger, the role of the committee (appointed by the court) becomes easier,&rdquo; the top court said while hearing Labh Singh&rsquo;s petition seeking contempt of court action against Punjab Chief Secretary and Director-General of Police.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Your attitude is that there should be no conciliation. That is the whole problem,&rdquo; Justice Kant added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The SC said that there is a deliberate attempt in the media by the Punjab government to create the impression that the court is pressuring Dallewal to break his fast. 

The Supreme Court on Thursday heard a petition related to the ongoing farmers' protest and questioned the Centre for not making a statement that they would consider genuine demands of protesting farmers and their doors are open. The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, questioned Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. "Mr Mehta, you have been there for all these days, why your client cannot make a statement that we will consider the genuine and that we are open to genuine grievances of farmers… Our doors are open… Why can’t the Central Government also make a statement?," Justice Bhuyan questioned. Also read: PM Modi announces increased crop insurance allocation, fertiliser subsidy for farmers “Your Lordships are perhaps not aware of several factors which are weighing in. Therefore, right now we are confining (ourselves) to one person’s health,” Mehta said, referring to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on fast-unto-death for more than a month now. “If the State fails, then the Union will,” the Bench said. It further posted the matter for further hearing to be held on Monday. SC slams Punjab govt for creating 'false impression' The apex court said that there is a deliberate attempt in the media by the Punjab government to create the impression that the court is pressuring Dallewal to break his fast. Farmers’ leader Jagjit Sigh Dallewal, who has been on fast-unto-death since November 26, has refused to receive medical help. Also read: India: Farmer leader Dallewal to take medical aid if Centre agrees to talk, Punjab tells SC “There is a deliberate attempt in the media by your state government officers to give an impression that the court is pressuring him to break the fast. Our direction was not to break his fast. We only said that let his health be taken care of and he could continue his peaceful protest even when he is hospitalised. You have to persuade him from this angle,” the bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan told Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh. The Justices said that shifting him to the hospital does not mean that he will not continue his fast. There are medical facilities that will ensure that no harm is caused to his life. That is our only concern. His life is precious as a farm leader. He is not aligned to any political ideologies, and he is taking care of only the farmers’ cause,” Justice Kant said. Also read: Punjab farmers call for 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' on January 4 He stressed that once Dallewal's health is taken care of, he can continue the fast. "Once we are satisfied that his life is not in danger, the role of the committee (appointed by the court) becomes easier,” the top court said while hearing Labh Singh’s petition seeking contempt of court action against Punjab Chief Secretary and Director-General of Police. “Your attitude is that there should be no conciliation. That is the whole problem,” Justice Kant added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers,' asks Supreme Court

New Delhi, India
As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". 
The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26.
The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-rail-roko-agitation-in-punjab-travellers-may-face-inconvenience-784880">Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience</a>
“He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. 
This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. 
The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. 
"He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. 
Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/02/469087-thumb-1.png&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0212_WION_ORG_DELIHI_CHALO_MARCH_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=142&tags=Punjab,delhi farmer protest,MSP,Noida,delhi-ncr" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. 
"We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. 
Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers.
The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met.
(With inputs from agencies)

The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. 



New Delhi, India As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience “He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. "He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. "We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers. The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: SC warns Punjab govt if something happens to farmers 'entire state machinery to be blamed'

As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed".&nbsp;

The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26.

The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-farmers-protest-rail-roko-agitation-in-punjab-travellers-may-face-inconvenience-784880">Also read:&nbsp;India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience</a>

“He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments.&nbsp;

This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights.&nbsp;

The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation.&nbsp;

"He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-farmers-protest-explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-and-what-are-their-demands-780833/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances.&nbsp;

"We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said.&nbsp;

Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers.

The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed".

As Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued his fast-unto-death, the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Dec 18) directed the Punjab government to extend him immediate medical aid, saying that if something happens, the "entire state machinery will be blamed". The 70-year-old farmer leader has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. The court further said that there would be serious repercussions if something untoward happened to him. Also read: India farmers' protest: 'Rail roko' agitation in Punjab, travellers face inconvenience “He needs to be healthy to agitate… As an elected government and a constitutional organ, you would not like to invite the blame that something happened to him… Even farmers should be concerned about saving their life. He’s their leader! You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly,” a Bench led by Justice Surya Kant told the central and state governments. This comes as the Punjab government pointed out that Dallewal has refused medical treatment despite his health deteriorating and has vowed to sacrifice his life for farmers' rights. The court stressed that Dallewal is a leader of the farmers, and no leniency can be shown in such a situation. "He's (Mr Dallewal) their leader. The farmers should also be concerned about his health... You tell us something tomorrow. Do something swiftly," he added. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × The apex court emphasised that the court's doors are always open for farmers' demands, and they can visit and express their grievances. "We clarify that the court's doors are always open to any suggestion or demand by farmers directly or through their authorised representative," it said. Dallewal had been on a hunger strike for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and to seek justice for the injured farmers. The doctors are warning that he may suffer a heart attack as his health is worsening. Despite the fact he knows about these risks, Dallewal is keen to continue his protest till his demands are met. (With inputs from agencies)

Protesting farmers, blocked thrice from marching to Delhi, have declared a statewide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation in Punjab on December 18, urging unity among farmer unions.

Protesting farmers, blocked thrice from marching to Delhi, have declared a statewide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation in Punjab on December 18, urging unity among farmer unions. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the residents of Punjab’s 13,000 villages to block railway tracks from 12 to 3 pm. “We appeal to everyone living near railway crossings to join this movement,” Pandher said at a press conference at the Shambhu border in Patiala. Pandher also reached out to Rakesh Tikait-led Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), the prominent farmers' group that led last year's protest against the now-repealed farm laws. In a letter, Pandher invited SKM to join the 'Rail Roko' protest, calling for unity despite past differences. “Let’s unite for the welfare of farmers and labourers,” Pandher stated. Previous attempts to enter Delhi stopped Farmers tried to enter Delhi on foot three times—on December 6, 8, and 14. Each time, the police stopped them. On December 14, the police used tear gas, injuring 17 farmers. Despite these obstacles, the farmers are still holding their ground at the Punjab-Haryana border and are determined to continue their protest. Impact of the protest The farmers plan to block important railway routes in Punjab, which is expected to cause major disruption. This is the latest step in their ongoing protest against policies they believe harm their interests. All eyes will be on December 18 to see if the protest gains support and if SKM joins in. (With inputs from agencies)

Protesting farmers announce ‘Rail Roko’ on December 18, call for Rakesh Tikait’s support

farmers

Farmers, News on Farmers, stories on Farmers, articles on Farmers, Farmers stories at Wion, Farmers news, Farmers latest news