India has issued a strong demarche to Canadian High Commissioner Nadir Patel. What warning did India send out to Canada? What explains Canada's activism on the ongoing farmer protests? Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: India summons Canadian High Commissioner

The singer-actor&nbsp;Diljit Dosanjh, who was recently in news for a verbal Twitter spat with Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, made a surprise guest appearance at the Haryana-Delhi border — Singhu border — to support the protesting farmers in India.

He addressed the gathering of hundreds of farmers at the border. He took to the stage and urged the government to listen and fulfil the farmer's requests. "We have only one request to Centre..please fulfil the demands of our farmers. Everyone is sitting here peacefully and entire country is with farmers," he said.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmer-protests-fifth-round-of-talks-between-govt-and-union-leaders-underway-347708">&nbsp;Farmer protests: Fifth round of talks between govt and union leaders underway</a>

"Hats off to all of you, farmers have created a new history. This history would be narrated to future generations. Farmers' issues shouldn't be diverted by anyone," he added.

Diljit recently had a verbal spat with the&nbsp;Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut on Twitter. The two had a long exchange of comments, which started with Diljit lending his support to the farmers and Ranaut name-calling an old lady who was involved in the protests.

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Delhi: Singer &amp; actor Diljit Singh Dosanjh addresses protesting farmers at Singhu border (Haryana-Delhi border) 
 
"We have only one request to Centre..please fulfil the demands of our farmers. Everyone is sitting here peacefully &amp; entire country is with farmers," he says <a href="https://t.co/H5ax67QsBX">pic.twitter.com/H5ax67QsBX</a>
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The Twitter spat was also highlighted for Diljit sticking to his native language, Punjabi, while drafting replies for the Hindi-speaking actress. Many people took to Twitter to later translate Dosanjh's tweets for the non-Punjabi speaking audience. This time, while addressing the farmers at the border, Dosanjh said he is purposely talking in Hindi to make sure no one has to Google the translations of his words, and he can efficiently send across his message.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-mps-support-indian-farmers-agitation-write-to-lawmaker-dominic-raab-347675" hreflang="en">British MPs support Indian farmers' agitation, write to lawmaker Dominic Raab</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Railways, Commerce and Food Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Commerce Som Parkash are engaging in talks with the representatives of 40 farmers' unions at the Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trudeau-reiterates-comments-on-farmer-protests-amid-diplomatic-row-with-india-347592" hreflang="en">Trudeau reiterates comments on farmer protests amid diplomatic row with India</a>

"Our demand is the same that the government should withdraw all three farm laws. We want MSP should be guaranteed through the law," said Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Rajewal state general secretary Onkar Singh Agaul.

The farmers have also announced a 'Bharat Bandh' on December 08, and have threatened to block further in-ways to the national capital city, New Delhi, if the Government of India does not fulfil their demands. The farmers have warned the government that they will be willing to increase the intensity of the protests if their demand are not met.

The singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who was recently in news for a verbal Twitter spat with Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, made a surprise guest appearance at the Haryana-Delhi border — Singhu border — to support the protesting farmers in India.

The singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who was recently in news for a verbal Twitter spat with Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, made a surprise guest appearance at the Haryana-Delhi border — Singhu border — to support the protesting farmers in India. He addressed the gathering of hundreds of farmers at the border. He took to the stage and urged the government to listen and fulfil the farmer's requests. "We have only one request to Centre..please fulfil the demands of our farmers. Everyone is sitting here peacefully and entire country is with farmers," he said. Also read| Farmer protests: Fifth round of talks between govt and union leaders underway "Hats off to all of you, farmers have created a new history. This history would be narrated to future generations. Farmers' issues shouldn't be diverted by anyone," he added. Diljit recently had a verbal spat with the Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut on Twitter. The two had a long exchange of comments, which started with Diljit lending his support to the farmers and Ranaut name-calling an old lady who was involved in the protests. Delhi: Singer & actor Diljit Singh Dosanjh addresses protesting farmers at Singhu border (Haryana-Delhi border) "We have only one request to Centre..please fulfil the demands of our farmers. Everyone is sitting here peacefully & entire country is with farmers," he says pic.twitter.com/H5ax67QsBX — ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2020 × The Twitter spat was also highlighted for Diljit sticking to his native language, Punjabi, while drafting replies for the Hindi-speaking actress. Many people took to Twitter to later translate Dosanjh's tweets for the non-Punjabi speaking audience. This time, while addressing the farmers at the border, Dosanjh said he is purposely talking in Hindi to make sure no one has to Google the translations of his words, and he can efficiently send across his message. Also read| British MPs support Indian farmers' agitation, write to lawmaker Dominic Raab Meanwhile, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Railways, Commerce and Food Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Commerce Som Parkash are engaging in talks with the representatives of 40 farmers' unions at the Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi. Also read| Trudeau reiterates comments on farmer protests amid diplomatic row with India "Our demand is the same that the government should withdraw all three farm laws. We want MSP should be guaranteed through the law," said Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Rajewal state general secretary Onkar Singh Agaul. The farmers have also announced a 'Bharat Bandh' on December 08, and have threatened to block further in-ways to the national capital city, New Delhi, if the Government of India does not fulfil their demands. The farmers have warned the government that they will be willing to increase the intensity of the protests if their demand are not met.

Diljit Dosanjh makes surprise appearance at Singhu border to support farmers

A faction of over 30 cross-party MPs in Britain, led by the Labour Party's Tanmanjit Singh Dhesi, have come out in support of the ongoing farmers' agitation in India.

The development comes as farmers have continued their protests at the Delhi-Haryana and Delhi-Uttar Pradesh borders.

The 36 lawmakers wrote to UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to raise the matter with the Indian government.

The MPs, in a missive to Raab, asked to pressurise India against the recently enacted agriculture laws which "exploit" the farmers and those who depend on farming.

They also urged the Foreign Secretary to hold talks with the Indian government.

In his letter, Dhesi, the Labour MP for Slough, said that last month several MPs wrote to the Indian High Commission in London about the impacts of the three new farm laws.

"This is an issue of particular concern to Sikhs in the UK and those linked to Punjab, although it also heavily impacts on other Indian states," the letter said.

It called for an urgent with Raab to discuss the situation in Punjab and its relationship with the Union government.

In a tweet, Dhesi said: "Many constituents, especially those emanating from the Punjab, have contacted MPs to express solidarity with the farmers opposing farmers Bill 2020 in India. Dozens of MPs duly deliberated and signed a cross-party letter, seeking justice for the peacefully protesting farmers."

The agitated farmers are demanding the repeal of the three farm laws passed by Parliament earlier this year and have expressed apprehension that they would pave the way for the dismantling of the minimum support price system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporate houses.

The government, on its part, has maintained that the new laws will provide farmers with better opportunities.

 
&nbsp;

A faction of over 30 cross-party MPs in Britain, led by the Labour Party's Tanmanjit Singh Dhesi, have come out in support of the ongoing farmers' agitation in India.

A faction of over 30 cross-party MPs in Britain, led by the Labour Party's Tanmanjit Singh Dhesi, have come out in support of the ongoing farmers' agitation in India. The development comes as farmers have continued their protests at the Delhi-Haryana and Delhi-Uttar Pradesh borders. The 36 lawmakers wrote to UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to raise the matter with the Indian government. The MPs, in a missive to Raab, asked to pressurise India against the recently enacted agriculture laws which "exploit" the farmers and those who depend on farming. They also urged the Foreign Secretary to hold talks with the Indian government. In his letter, Dhesi, the Labour MP for Slough, said that last month several MPs wrote to the Indian High Commission in London about the impacts of the three new farm laws. "This is an issue of particular concern to Sikhs in the UK and those linked to Punjab, although it also heavily impacts on other Indian states," the letter said. It called for an urgent with Raab to discuss the situation in Punjab and its relationship with the Union government. In a tweet, Dhesi said: "Many constituents, especially those emanating from the Punjab, have contacted MPs to express solidarity with the farmers opposing farmers Bill 2020 in India. Dozens of MPs duly deliberated and signed a cross-party letter, seeking justice for the peacefully protesting farmers." The agitated farmers are demanding the repeal of the three farm laws passed by Parliament earlier this year and have expressed apprehension that they would pave the way for the dismantling of the minimum support price system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporate houses. The government, on its part, has maintained that the new laws will provide farmers with better opportunities.

British MPs support Indian farmers' agitation, write to lawmaker Dominic Raab

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting.

The meeting takes place next week, and ahead of that Canada was told that India will not attend the meet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Jaishankar attended the 11th Ministerial Coordination Group on Covid-19 in November. That was the first time India officially took part in the meet.&nbsp;

A release from Canadian foreign ministry that time said, "Minister Champagne (Canadian Foreign minister) welcomed Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India to the group, noting the recent developments in India and emphasizing the critical role India plays in addressing global COVID-19 vaccine and pharmaceutical needs.".

Other members of the grouping include Brazil, France, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore and the United Kingdom.

Last week Canadian PM made remarks on ongoing farmers protests in India, irking New Delhi.&nbsp;

In a strong reaction to what India called "ill-informed" and "unwarranted" remarks, Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Canadian envoy Nadir Patel and told him that "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." 
&nbsp;

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting.

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting. The meeting takes place next week, and ahead of that Canada was told that India will not attend the meet. Watch | Jaishankar attended the 11th Ministerial Coordination Group on Covid-19 in November. That was the first time India officially took part in the meet. A release from Canadian foreign ministry that time said, "Minister Champagne (Canadian Foreign minister) welcomed Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India to the group, noting the recent developments in India and emphasizing the critical role India plays in addressing global COVID-19 vaccine and pharmaceutical needs.". Other members of the grouping include Brazil, France, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Last week Canadian PM made remarks on ongoing farmers protests in India, irking New Delhi. In a strong reaction to what India called "ill-informed" and "unwarranted" remarks, Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Canadian envoy Nadir Patel and told him that "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

India's EAM not to attend Canada's foreign ministers' grouping meet on Covid-19

'Bilateral ties between the two countries might suffer', this statement comes after the Indian ministry of external affairs issued a demarche objecting to the Canadian Prime Minister's comment on the farmers protests in India.

WION Dispatch: India issues demarche to Canadian envoy

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India.

The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests and said, "Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue", which irked New Delhi. 
 
During the summoning, India also raised the issue of "safety and security" of Indian missions and consulates since the comments, MEA statement said "encouraging gatherings of extremist activities in front of our High Commission and Consulates".&nbsp;

It said, "We expect the Canadian Government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimize extremist activism."

Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated a number of terror attacks. The bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 from Montreal to London that killed 329 was planned by Canada-based Khalistani terrorists.

This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India.

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India. The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests and said, "Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue", which irked New Delhi. During the summoning, India also raised the issue of "safety and security" of Indian missions and consulates since the comments, MEA statement said "encouraging gatherings of extremist activities in front of our High Commission and Consulates". It said, "We expect the Canadian Government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimize extremist activism." Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated a number of terror attacks. The bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 from Montreal to London that killed 329 was planned by Canada-based Khalistani terrorists. This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

‘May impact ties’: India summons Canadian envoy over Trudeau's remark on farmers' protest

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing protests of farmers in the national capital, India's ministry of external affairs said that comments of many Canadian leaders on this issue were ill-informed.

WION Dispatch: India says, "Comments by Canadian leaders on farmers protest are unwarranted"

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed".

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes."

Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468" hreflang="en">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

"The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said.

"Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added.

While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes." Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities. Also read| PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' "The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said. "Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added. While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India slams Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's 'Ill-informed' comments on farmer protests

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana.

The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk &amp; GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini &amp; vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 &amp; Singhu borders.?

In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana.

Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces."

The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion.

"Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle.

The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital.

After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre.

They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers. Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them. Also read | PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana. The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk & GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini & vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 & Singhu borders.? In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana. Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces." The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion. "Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle. The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital. After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre. They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.

Traffic woes continue in Delhi amid farmers' protest

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers.&nbsp;

Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-protests-pm-modi-backs-farm-laws-in-mann-ki-baat-address-346207">Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address</a>

"The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appreciates-scientists-efforts-to-come-out-with-vaccine-solution-to-combat-covid-19-346419">PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19</a>

"These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." 
&nbsp; 
He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. &nbsp;

"We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. &nbsp;

"Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts. Also read | Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address "The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi. Also read | PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19 "These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. "We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said. He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. "Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said. Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."

PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'

Farmers In France & Germany Have Shut Down Paris & Berlin.

Gravitas: Why are Europe's farmers protesting?

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that paddy farmers in the state will get a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for the crop.

Till last year, the government was giving a bonus of Rs 200 per quintal for paddy, the key Kharif crop.

"The previous government gave bonus only around the time of elections. But, the BJP-led government gave Rs 200 bonus per quintal for paddy crop every year, irrespective of polls," Fadnavis said addressing a gathering at Sakoli taluka in Bhandara district on Saturday.

"There is a demand for a hike in paddy crop bonus. The government has decided to increase the bonus from Rs 200to Rs 500 per quintal," he added.

To woo distressed farmers ahead of the general polls, the NDA government at the Centre had last year hiked the minimum support price (MSP) of paddy by a sharp Rs 200 per quintal for the 2018-19 crop year.

With that decision, the MSP of paddy (common grade) was increased to Rs 1,750 per quintal.

Meanwhile, Fadnavis also said that no lease will be recovered for fishing in lakes up to 500-hectare area.

Also, fishing contracts will be allocated only to fishing cooperative societies, he said.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that paddy farmers in the state will get a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for the crop. Till last year, the government was giving a bonus of Rs 200 per quintal for paddy, the key Kharif crop.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that paddy farmers in the state will get a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for the crop. Till last year, the government was giving a bonus of Rs 200 per quintal for paddy, the key Kharif crop. "The previous government gave bonus only around the time of elections. But, the BJP-led government gave Rs 200 bonus per quintal for paddy crop every year, irrespective of polls," Fadnavis said addressing a gathering at Sakoli taluka in Bhandara district on Saturday. "There is a demand for a hike in paddy crop bonus. The government has decided to increase the bonus from Rs 200to Rs 500 per quintal," he added. To woo distressed farmers ahead of the general polls, the NDA government at the Centre had last year hiked the minimum support price (MSP) of paddy by a sharp Rs 200 per quintal for the 2018-19 crop year. With that decision, the MSP of paddy (common grade) was increased to Rs 1,750 per quintal. Meanwhile, Fadnavis also said that no lease will be recovered for fishing in lakes up to 500-hectare area. Also, fishing contracts will be allocated only to fishing cooperative societies, he said.

Maharashtra farmers to get Rs 500 per quintal paddy bonus: CM Devendra Fadnavis

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-march-to-mumbai-will-continue-as-talks-inconclusive-198688">ongoing protest march</a> from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government.

The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), backed by the CPI(M), announced suspension of the 180-km march from Nashik to Mumbai after a three-and-a-half hour meeting of its representatives with state ministers Girish Mahajan and Jaykumar Rawal.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/farmers-protest-in-last-2-years-255#farmers-protest-tamil-nadu-49354">farmers</a> had embarked on the march on Thursday morning, but it was called off later.

"The meeting (held Thursday) yielded positive results. We will suspend the march today," AIKS president Ashok Dhawale told PTI after the meeting between the two sides at Ambebahula village in Nashik.

This is the second time in the last one year that farmers were on the roads to protest against the "betrayal" of peasants by the BJP governments at the Centre and in the state.

Earlier, they had planned to launch the march on Wednesday but it was deferred by a day allegedly after the state police stopped scores of farmers approaching Nashik from districts like Thane, Palghar and Ahmednagar.

In a late night meeting on Wednesday, the AIKS had asked the government to give its assurances in writing, a demand Mahajan agreed to. Mahajan had held parleys on behalf of the Devendra Fadnavis dispensation.&nbsp;

The AIKS, however, had decided to proceed with its march from Nashik till the government kept its word.

Accordingly, the third round of meeting was held Thursday.

AIKS representatives had held the first meeting with the government on February 17 ahead of the launch of the long march.

According to AIKS president Dhawale, around 50,000 farmers from Nashik, Thane, Palghar, Ahmednagar and other districts of Maharashtra had taken part in the march.

Dhawale said the farmers will again launch the protest in case the government failed to keep promises made in writing.The meeting was also attended by CPI(M) MLA J P Gavit.

Dhawale said the government has given in writing that the ministers and AIKS representatives will take stock of the implementation of assurances every two months.

"Such meetings did not happen over the past year. Now, they have given it in writing that these meetings will be held to review progress of implementation," Dhawale added.

Besides accepting the demands raised by the farmers, the AIKS said the government has assured that water flowing in Maharashtra's rivers like Nar, Par, Damanganga and Pinjal will be transferred to the Godavari basin through lift irrigation and used in drought-hit areas of the state.

"The meeting went for three-and-a-half hour. The concerns raised by the AIKS representatives were conveyed to the chief minister.

"The meeting was positive. I am sure the AIKS representatives are satisfied," Mahajan said.

Following the suspension of the agitation, farmers left for their respective native villages, the AIKS said.&nbsp;

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its ongoing protest march from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government.

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its ongoing protest march from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government. The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), backed by the CPI(M), announced suspension of the 180-km march from Nashik to Mumbai after a three-and-a-half hour meeting of its representatives with state ministers Girish Mahajan and Jaykumar Rawal. The farmers had embarked on the march on Thursday morning, but it was called off later. "The meeting (held Thursday) yielded positive results. We will suspend the march today," AIKS president Ashok Dhawale told PTI after the meeting between the two sides at Ambebahula village in Nashik. This is the second time in the last one year that farmers were on the roads to protest against the "betrayal" of peasants by the BJP governments at the Centre and in the state. Earlier, they had planned to launch the march on Wednesday but it was deferred by a day allegedly after the state police stopped scores of farmers approaching Nashik from districts like Thane, Palghar and Ahmednagar. In a late night meeting on Wednesday, the AIKS had asked the government to give its assurances in writing, a demand Mahajan agreed to. Mahajan had held parleys on behalf of the Devendra Fadnavis dispensation. The AIKS, however, had decided to proceed with its march from Nashik till the government kept its word. Accordingly, the third round of meeting was held Thursday. AIKS representatives had held the first meeting with the government on February 17 ahead of the launch of the long march. According to AIKS president Dhawale, around 50,000 farmers from Nashik, Thane, Palghar, Ahmednagar and other districts of Maharashtra had taken part in the march. Dhawale said the farmers will again launch the protest in case the government failed to keep promises made in writing.The meeting was also attended by CPI(M) MLA J P Gavit. Dhawale said the government has given in writing that the ministers and AIKS representatives will take stock of the implementation of assurances every two months. "Such meetings did not happen over the past year. Now, they have given it in writing that these meetings will be held to review progress of implementation," Dhawale added. Besides accepting the demands raised by the farmers, the AIKS said the government has assured that water flowing in Maharashtra's rivers like Nar, Par, Damanganga and Pinjal will be transferred to the Godavari basin through lift irrigation and used in drought-hit areas of the state. "The meeting went for three-and-a-half hour. The concerns raised by the AIKS representatives were conveyed to the chief minister. "The meeting was positive. I am sure the AIKS representatives are satisfied," Mahajan said. Following the suspension of the agitation, farmers left for their respective native villages, the AIKS said.

Farmers' march to Mumbai suspended after talks with Maharashtra government

Hundreds of farmers from Uttar Pradesh stayed put near the DND flyway, at the junction of Noida and Delhi, on Saturday demanding enhanced compensation in lieu of their land acquired before 2013.

The Delhi-Noida-Direct flyway, a crucial route connecting UP and Delhi, was shut briefly on Friday evening as farmers from western UP districts protested on the route, throwing traffic movement out of gear.

The rally, organised by Kisan Uday Abhiyan, led by Manveer Teotia, included farmers from Gautam Buddh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Aligarh and Meerut.

Many of them were women from villages with their heads covered. The women had their hands raised and tied with a piece of cloth in a symbolic gesture expressing helplessness.

"We are here to demand that we be given compensation in accordance with the law on land acquisition that was passed in Parliament in 2013. Our lands were acquired prior to that and we have been left out from the benefits as doled out under the new law," Kaale Singh from Bhatta Parsaul village of Gautam Buddh Nagar told PTI.

He said the farmers want local authorities and administrations to take up the matter with UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, but nothing fruitful has happened so far, hence the protest.

"Yesterday we tried to go to Delhi but were stopped midway, so we decided to stay put near the DND. We won't budge unless we get a satisfactory response from top officials," he said.

Gautam Buddh Nagar District Magistrate B N Singh met the farmers Saturday morning and assured them he would take up the matter with the state government. But Kaale Singh said the "protestors remained dissatisfied with the assurance".

The protest organisers claimed there were 1,500 farmers at the DND Saturday morning. Other reports, however, said a little over 500 people were protesting at the site.

Two policemen and two farmers were killed in clashes in May 2011 following protests over acquisition of land in Greater Noida's Bhatta Parsaul, the Jat-dominated village which had become the epicentre of protests of land acquisitions in the country.

Two years since that upheaval, the country had got the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (also Land Acquisition Act, 2013).

The new law was aimed at providing "fair compensation"&nbsp;to those whose land is taken away, brings transparency to the process of acquisition of land to set up factories or buildings, infrastructure projects and assures rehabilitation of those affected.&nbsp;

Hundreds of farmers from Uttar Pradesh stayed put near the DND flyway, at the junction of Noida and Delhi, on Saturday demanding enhanced compensation in lieu of their land acquired before 2013.

Hundreds of farmers from Uttar Pradesh stayed put near the DND flyway, at the junction of Noida and Delhi, on Saturday demanding enhanced compensation in lieu of their land acquired before 2013. The Delhi-Noida-Direct flyway, a crucial route connecting UP and Delhi, was shut briefly on Friday evening as farmers from western UP districts protested on the route, throwing traffic movement out of gear. The rally, organised by Kisan Uday Abhiyan, led by Manveer Teotia, included farmers from Gautam Buddh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Aligarh and Meerut. Many of them were women from villages with their heads covered. The women had their hands raised and tied with a piece of cloth in a symbolic gesture expressing helplessness. "We are here to demand that we be given compensation in accordance with the law on land acquisition that was passed in Parliament in 2013. Our lands were acquired prior to that and we have been left out from the benefits as doled out under the new law," Kaale Singh from Bhatta Parsaul village of Gautam Buddh Nagar told PTI. He said the farmers want local authorities and administrations to take up the matter with UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, but nothing fruitful has happened so far, hence the protest. "Yesterday we tried to go to Delhi but were stopped midway, so we decided to stay put near the DND. We won't budge unless we get a satisfactory response from top officials," he said. Gautam Buddh Nagar District Magistrate B N Singh met the farmers Saturday morning and assured them he would take up the matter with the state government. But Kaale Singh said the "protestors remained dissatisfied with the assurance". The protest organisers claimed there were 1,500 farmers at the DND Saturday morning. Other reports, however, said a little over 500 people were protesting at the site. Two policemen and two farmers were killed in clashes in May 2011 following protests over acquisition of land in Greater Noida's Bhatta Parsaul, the Jat-dominated village which had become the epicentre of protests of land acquisitions in the country. Two years since that upheaval, the country had got the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (also Land Acquisition Act, 2013). The new law was aimed at providing "fair compensation" to those whose land is taken away, brings transparency to the process of acquisition of land to set up factories or buildings, infrastructure projects and assures rehabilitation of those affected.

Delhi: Farmers tie their hands in symbolic protest on DND

The Delhi-Noida Direct (DND) flyway connecting Uttar Pradesh with the national capital was shut on Friday evening as a huge mass of farmers marched on the road in a rally, officials said.

The Delhi Traffic Police cautioned commuters asking them to take alternate routes between Delhi and Noida suggesting usage of NH-9 instead of the DND to those moving to Ghazipur via Mayur Vihar.

"Due to the rally/protest by farmers, the DND road between Noida and Delhi has been shut," the Delhi Traffic Police tweeted at 5 pm.

&nbsp;Earlier in the day, it issued an advisory stating traffic movement on NH-24, Kalindi Kunj, Sarita Vihar, Mathura Road, and from DND to Ashram was likely to be impacted due to the rally.

The Noida Traffic Police said there could be diversions made on the route as per requirements.

"People are advised to use alternate roads via Mayur Vihar and Kalindi Kunj for movement between Noida and Delhi to avoid inconvenience," it had said in the advisory.

Vehicular movement on the crucial route had come to a crawl this evening, with several commuters sharing their agony on social media.

"Coming back to Delhi from Noida, Avoid roads. Take the metro. The traffic is insane. 2 hours for a 35 min route. And I have still not reached," said a Twitter user.&nbsp;

The Delhi-Noida Direct (DND) flyway connecting Uttar Pradesh with the national capital was shut on Friday evening as a huge mass of farmers marched on the road in a rally, officials said.

The Delhi-Noida Direct (DND) flyway connecting Uttar Pradesh with the national capital was shut on Friday evening as a huge mass of farmers marched on the road in a rally, officials said. The Delhi Traffic Police cautioned commuters asking them to take alternate routes between Delhi and Noida suggesting usage of NH-9 instead of the DND to those moving to Ghazipur via Mayur Vihar. "Due to the rally/protest by farmers, the DND road between Noida and Delhi has been shut," the Delhi Traffic Police tweeted at 5 pm. Earlier in the day, it issued an advisory stating traffic movement on NH-24, Kalindi Kunj, Sarita Vihar, Mathura Road, and from DND to Ashram was likely to be impacted due to the rally. The Noida Traffic Police said there could be diversions made on the route as per requirements. "People are advised to use alternate roads via Mayur Vihar and Kalindi Kunj for movement between Noida and Delhi to avoid inconvenience," it had said in the advisory. Vehicular movement on the crucial route had come to a crawl this evening, with several commuters sharing their agony on social media. "Coming back to Delhi from Noida, Avoid roads. Take the metro. The traffic is insane. 2 hours for a 35 min route. And I have still not reached," said a Twitter user.

DND shut due to farmers' rally in Delhi

Farmers staged a protest and raised slogans against Congress president Rahul Gandhi in his parliamentary constituency Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.

The farmers protested in Gauriganj town in Amethi district on Wednesday demanding that either their land that was given to Rajiv Gandhi Foundation should be returned or else they are provided employment.

Rahul yesterday visited Amethi for campaigning for the general elections.

One of the protesters, Sanjay Sing told ANI: "We are very upset with Rahul Gandhi. He should go back to Italy. He does not deserve to be here. Rahul has grabbed our land."

They staged the protest near Samrat Cycle factory, which was inaugurated by former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi when he was the Member of Parliament (MP) from Amethi.

In the 1980s, Jain brothers had taken over 65.57 acres of land in the industrial area of Kausar to run a company but after its failure, a land auction took place in 2014.

According to the records, UPSIDC had leased 65.57 acres of land to the company in 1986 but when the company was closed down, the Debts Recovery Tribunal got it auctioned in 2014 at Rs. 20.10 crore to recover the loan.

The land purchased in the auction was paid by the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust for stamp duty of Rs. 1,50,000.

However, later the land auction process was termed invalid by the UPSIDC following which a Gauriganj SDM Court ordered the return of the land of the Samrat Cycle Factory to UPSIDC.

Since then the land is on papers with UPSIDC but is still occupied by the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust.

Earlier, Union Minister Smriti Irani had also accused Rahul of grabbing the land of farmers through the foundation.

The Congress scion has, however, always pitched for farmers` welfare and even promised to waive their loan in his election speeches.&nbsp;

Farmers staged a protest and raised slogans against Congress president Rahul Gandhi in his parliamentary constituency Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. The farmers protested in Gauriganj town in Amethi district on Wednesday demanding that either their land that was given to Rajiv Gandhi Foundation should be returned or else they are provided employment.

Farmers staged a protest and raised slogans against Congress president Rahul Gandhi in his parliamentary constituency Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. The farmers protested in Gauriganj town in Amethi district on Wednesday demanding that either their land that was given to Rajiv Gandhi Foundation should be returned or else they are provided employment. Rahul yesterday visited Amethi for campaigning for the general elections. One of the protesters, Sanjay Sing told ANI: "We are very upset with Rahul Gandhi. He should go back to Italy. He does not deserve to be here. Rahul has grabbed our land." They staged the protest near Samrat Cycle factory, which was inaugurated by former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi when he was the Member of Parliament (MP) from Amethi. In the 1980s, Jain brothers had taken over 65.57 acres of land in the industrial area of Kausar to run a company but after its failure, a land auction took place in 2014. According to the records, UPSIDC had leased 65.57 acres of land to the company in 1986 but when the company was closed down, the Debts Recovery Tribunal got it auctioned in 2014 at Rs. 20.10 crore to recover the loan. The land purchased in the auction was paid by the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust for stamp duty of Rs. 1,50,000. However, later the land auction process was termed invalid by the UPSIDC following which a Gauriganj SDM Court ordered the return of the land of the Samrat Cycle Factory to UPSIDC. Since then the land is on papers with UPSIDC but is still occupied by the Rajiv Gandhi Charitable Trust. Earlier, Union Minister Smriti Irani had also accused Rahul of grabbing the land of farmers through the foundation. The Congress scion has, however, always pitched for farmers` welfare and even promised to waive their loan in his election speeches.

With Rahul in Amethi, farmers demand back land given to Rajiv Gandhi Foundation

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Over 3,500 police personnel have deployed on the route of the march. According to a senior police officer, special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts.

As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said.

In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said.

Nine police companies, along with 71 officers, from the rank of inspectors up to additional DCPs, are also present.

Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday.

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Delhi: Farmers from all across the nation hold protest for the second day over their demands of debt relief, better MSP for crops, among others; latest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#visuals</a> from near Jantar Mantar <a href="https://t.co/zwnHQHALkk">pic.twitter.com/zwnHQHALkk</a>
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Traffic was disrupted in many parts of the city on Thursday as the farmers marched to the Ramlila ground in the heart of the city on four different routes, starting from Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan railway stations and Sabzi Mandi.

Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers from nearby areas converged at Majnu Ka Tila on the outskirts of Delhi from where they marched in groups to Ramlila Maidan on Thursday.

About 1,200 members of the National South Indian River Interlinking Agriculturalists Association reached the national capital in the early hours of Thursday carrying skulls of two of their colleagues who had committed suicide, their leader P Ayyakannu claimed.

The group from Tamil Nadu had threatened to march naked if they are not allowed to go to Parliament on Friday. They had last year staged protests at Jantar Mantar with the skulls of eight farmers who killed themselves owing to losses.

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Delhi: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from near Ramlila Maidan on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands <a href="https://t.co/j145x5uhc7">pic.twitter.com/j145x5uhc7</a>
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The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.

Five Gurdwaras in the Delhi region have extended their help to the farmers. Also, students from various universities turned out in large numbers to lend support to the farmers. The protest also saw participation of a number of women farmers who travelled from various parts of the country.

Volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, professors and artists, all came out in large numbers to help the farmers. Around 600-700 volunteers of a solidarity group 'Nation For Farmers' marched with the protesters from the four assembly points.

The AIKSCC was formed under the aegis of All India Kisan Sabha and other Left-affiliated farmers' bodies in June, 2017, following protests by farmers in states such as Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh for debt relief and remunerative prices.&nbsp;

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Over 3,500 police personnel have deployed on the route of the march. According to a senior police officer, special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts. As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said. In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said. Nine police companies, along with 71 officers, from the rank of inspectors up to additional DCPs, are also present. Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday. Delhi: Farmers from all across the nation hold protest for the second day over their demands of debt relief, better MSP for crops, among others; latest #visuals from near Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/zwnHQHALkk — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Delhi: Latest #visuals from near Jantar Mantar on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands pic.twitter.com/SIccqj6DIo — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Traffic was disrupted in many parts of the city on Thursday as the farmers marched to the Ramlila ground in the heart of the city on four different routes, starting from Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan railway stations and Sabzi Mandi. Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport. Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers from nearby areas converged at Majnu Ka Tila on the outskirts of Delhi from where they marched in groups to Ramlila Maidan on Thursday. About 1,200 members of the National South Indian River Interlinking Agriculturalists Association reached the national capital in the early hours of Thursday carrying skulls of two of their colleagues who had committed suicide, their leader P Ayyakannu claimed. The group from Tamil Nadu had threatened to march naked if they are not allowed to go to Parliament on Friday. They had last year staged protests at Jantar Mantar with the skulls of eight farmers who killed themselves owing to losses. Delhi: #Visuals from near Ramlila Maidan on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands pic.twitter.com/j145x5uhc7 — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi. Five Gurdwaras in the Delhi region have extended their help to the farmers. Also, students from various universities turned out in large numbers to lend support to the farmers. The protest also saw participation of a number of women farmers who travelled from various parts of the country. Volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, professors and artists, all came out in large numbers to help the farmers. Around 600-700 volunteers of a solidarity group 'Nation For Farmers' marched with the protesters from the four assembly points. The AIKSCC was formed under the aegis of All India Kisan Sabha and other Left-affiliated farmers' bodies in June, 2017, following protests by farmers in states such as Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh for debt relief and remunerative prices.

Farmers begin march towards Parliament from Ramlila Maidan; 3,500 cops deployed

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday.&nbsp;

Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining.

"We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice.

Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away.

"My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI.

Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues.

But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather.

Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around.

"Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said.

Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them.

A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer.

Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night.

"I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI.

Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance.

"One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital.

The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day.&nbsp; 
Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.&nbsp;

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday. Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining. "We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice. Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away. "My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI. Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues. But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather. Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around. "Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said. Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them. A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer. Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night. "I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI. Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance. "One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital. The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day. Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.

Farmers brave chilly night at Ramlila Maidan, 'Khudai Khidmatgaars' offer comfort

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-march-towards-parliament-from-ramlila-maidan-3500-cops-deployed-180376">march to Parliament</a> amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Traffic was affected on the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, on the stretch near Guru Nanak Eye hospital, Maharaja Ranjit Singh flyover, Barakhamba Chowk and Janpath on Friday morning. Commuters were advised to avoid these routes.

Around 1,000 traffic police personnel have been deployed between Ramlila Maidan and Parliament to ensure that commuters do not face inconvenience.

"Due to this march, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Ferozshah Road, Janpath, Mandir Marg, Panchkuian Marg, Ashoka Road, Jai Singh Marg and inner and outer circles of Connaught Place will be affected. Our senior traffic officials, along with other traffic personnel, are managing traffic," a senior traffic police official said.

Citizens were advised to follow the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page, Twitter handle, WhatsApp and the traffic helpline for live updates.

Over 3,500 police personnel have also been deployed on the route of the march and special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts.

As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said.

In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said.

Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday.

Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their march to Parliament amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Traffic in central and Lutyens' Delhi went into a tizzy on Friday as thousands of farmers, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground since Thursday, began their march to Parliament amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their various demands including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Traffic was affected on the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, on the stretch near Guru Nanak Eye hospital, Maharaja Ranjit Singh flyover, Barakhamba Chowk and Janpath on Friday morning. Commuters were advised to avoid these routes. Around 1,000 traffic police personnel have been deployed between Ramlila Maidan and Parliament to ensure that commuters do not face inconvenience. "Due to this march, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, Ferozshah Road, Janpath, Mandir Marg, Panchkuian Marg, Ashoka Road, Jai Singh Marg and inner and outer circles of Connaught Place will be affected. Our senior traffic officials, along with other traffic personnel, are managing traffic," a senior traffic police official said. Citizens were advised to follow the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page, Twitter handle, WhatsApp and the traffic helpline for live updates. Over 3,500 police personnel have also been deployed on the route of the march and special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts. As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said. In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said. Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday. Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Farmers' march to Parliament throws traffic in tizzy in central, Lutyens' Delhi

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

"Farmers, from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and other states, will march on four different routes in the national capital, starting at three major railway stations Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan&nbsp;and at Sabzi Mandi,"&nbsp;their leaders said.

All the marchers will pour in at Ramlila Ground in the heart of the city by evening.

Farmers from Delhi, Punjab and Haryana started trickling in by 10:30 am.

Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers have also arrived at Majnu Ka Tila, from where they will start marching in groups to Ramlila Maidan.

"We hope by 3 pm, farmers from across the country will arrive at Ramlila Ground," said AIKS.

The two-day rally will be "one of the largest congregations of farmers" in Delhi, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) claimed on Wednesday.

The AIKSCC, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, said a cultural programme would be held at Ramlila Ground on Thursday, the first day of the protest, where prominent singers and poets from rural India would perform.

Police said they have made elaborate arrangements for the rally on Friday when the farmers will begin their march from Ramlila Ground to Parliament Street.

Support for farmers has started pouring with activists taking to Twitter to ask the general public to join the march.

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Delhi: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> of farmers' protest from near Ramlila Maidan area. Farmers from all across the nation have gathered in Delhi to participate in a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief &amp; better MSP for crops <a href="https://t.co/SB5pVkw2HT">pic.twitter.com/SB5pVkw2HT</a>
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Delhi: Farmers who gathered at Bijwasan, on their way to Ramlila Maidan. Farmers have gathered at different locations in the city &amp; will march to Ramlila Maidan. They are holding a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief &amp; better MSP for crops <a href="https://t.co/pmN38f26cV">pic.twitter.com/pmN38f26cV</a>
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"Women farmers greet us this morning from Brijwasan as they are all set to embark on #KisanMuktiMarch. Join us even if you are not a farmer. Join the hands that toil to feed us. Jai Kisan!," tweeted political activist Yogendra Yadav.

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan also tweeted in solidarity with farmers.

"Over 3 lakh farmers have committed suicide in India in last 15 years,due to successive government betraying them. Tomorrow 1 lakh farmers from across the country are marching to Delhi to ask for fair prices&amp; freedom from debt. Let's stand in solidarity with them," he said.

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. "Farmers, from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and other states, will march on four different routes in the national capital, starting at three major railway stations Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan and at Sabzi Mandi," their leaders said. All the marchers will pour in at Ramlila Ground in the heart of the city by evening. Farmers from Delhi, Punjab and Haryana started trickling in by 10:30 am. Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers have also arrived at Majnu Ka Tila, from where they will start marching in groups to Ramlila Maidan. "We hope by 3 pm, farmers from across the country will arrive at Ramlila Ground," said AIKS. The two-day rally will be "one of the largest congregations of farmers" in Delhi, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) claimed on Wednesday. The AIKSCC, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, said a cultural programme would be held at Ramlila Ground on Thursday, the first day of the protest, where prominent singers and poets from rural India would perform. Police said they have made elaborate arrangements for the rally on Friday when the farmers will begin their march from Ramlila Ground to Parliament Street. Support for farmers has started pouring with activists taking to Twitter to ask the general public to join the march. Delhi: #Visuals of farmers' protest from near Ramlila Maidan area. Farmers from all across the nation have gathered in Delhi to participate in a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief & better MSP for crops pic.twitter.com/SB5pVkw2HT — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × Delhi: Farmers who gathered at Bijwasan, on their way to Ramlila Maidan. Farmers have gathered at different locations in the city & will march to Ramlila Maidan. They are holding a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief & better MSP for crops pic.twitter.com/pmN38f26cV — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × "Women farmers greet us this morning from Brijwasan as they are all set to embark on #KisanMuktiMarch. Join us even if you are not a farmer. Join the hands that toil to feed us. Jai Kisan!," tweeted political activist Yogendra Yadav. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan also tweeted in solidarity with farmers. "Over 3 lakh farmers have committed suicide in India in last 15 years,due to successive government betraying them. Tomorrow 1 lakh farmers from across the country are marching to Delhi to ask for fair prices& freedom from debt. Let's stand in solidarity with them," he said.

To protest to govt, thousands of farmers converge on Delhi from across the country

Seven policemen, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured as protesting farmers turned violent while trying to enter the city from Uttar Pradesh in defiance of prohibitory orders, Delhi Police claimed on Tuesday.

As it drew flak for what the opposition parties termed as "brutal" action against the protesters, the city police said it used only "minimum required force" to control the situation.

Police said a section of protesters, who were participating in the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) march, suddenly turned violent as the cops tried to persuade them not to break the barricades.

Police said they used 20 tear gas shells and water cannons to manage the crowd, adding it was "minimum required force". As many as 3,000 police personnel were deployed to ensure that the farmers were not able to enter Delhi.

Since morning, the farmers gathered at Ghazipur border between Delhi and Ghaziabad in several thousands.

Senior officers including Special Commissioners of Police (Law and&nbsp;Order), joint commissioners of ranges and district deputy commissioners of police were personally supervising the arrangements, and maintained constant liaison with their UP counterparts, the Delhi Police said.

Announcements were regularly made on public address system about promulgation of prohibitory orders and requests were specifically made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcibly on tractor-trolleys since there was no permission for the same, they said.

"The protesters were also assured through their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels, and their movement will be duly facilitated in an orderly fashion without tractor- trolleys," the police said, adding it had specially deployed buses for ferrying the farmers to the city.

Talks were also going on in this regard with the leaders of various factions of the protesters, they said.

Despite requests that the protesters wait for the outcome of the talks between their leaders and the government, a section of the crowd suddenly turned violent and tried to break the barricades with tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis, they added.

"Tractor-trolleys were used with violent force by this aggressive section to break down three layers of strong barricading.&nbsp;Some protestors also resorted to stone pelting and wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty," the police alleged.

"Under these circumstances, only the minimum required force was used to contain these aggressive and violent protestors.

"However, after using water cannon and tear gas shells on a limited scale, the situation was brought under control, and thereafter use of any force was discontinued forthwith, resorting again to persuasive tactics," they added.

Seven police personnel, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured during this process. The ACP suffered a shoulder dislocation after he was roughed up by some of the protesters, the police said.

No other serious injury was reported to Delhi Police, they said.

The situation was brought under control and was closely monitored thereafter so as to facilitate talks between leaders of the farmers union and the government.

The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems as thousands of BKU headed for Delhi.

The main demands of the agitating farmers include implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission report, removing ban on the use of tractors which are more than 10 years old, clearing out pending payments of sugarcane purchase, increased price of sugar supplied and minimum support prices.&nbsp;

Seven policemen, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured as protesting farmers turned violent while trying to enter the city from Uttar Pradesh in defiance of prohibitory orders, Delhi Police claimed on Tuesday.

Seven policemen, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured as protesting farmers turned violent while trying to enter the city from Uttar Pradesh in defiance of prohibitory orders, Delhi Police claimed on Tuesday. As it drew flak for what the opposition parties termed as "brutal" action against the protesters, the city police said it used only "minimum required force" to control the situation. Police said a section of protesters, who were participating in the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) march, suddenly turned violent as the cops tried to persuade them not to break the barricades. Police said they used 20 tear gas shells and water cannons to manage the crowd, adding it was "minimum required force". As many as 3,000 police personnel were deployed to ensure that the farmers were not able to enter Delhi. Since morning, the farmers gathered at Ghazipur border between Delhi and Ghaziabad in several thousands. Senior officers including Special Commissioners of Police (Law and Order), joint commissioners of ranges and district deputy commissioners of police were personally supervising the arrangements, and maintained constant liaison with their UP counterparts, the Delhi Police said. Announcements were regularly made on public address system about promulgation of prohibitory orders and requests were specifically made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcibly on tractor-trolleys since there was no permission for the same, they said. "The protesters were also assured through their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels, and their movement will be duly facilitated in an orderly fashion without tractor- trolleys," the police said, adding it had specially deployed buses for ferrying the farmers to the city. Talks were also going on in this regard with the leaders of various factions of the protesters, they said. Despite requests that the protesters wait for the outcome of the talks between their leaders and the government, a section of the crowd suddenly turned violent and tried to break the barricades with tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis, they added. "Tractor-trolleys were used with violent force by this aggressive section to break down three layers of strong barricading. Some protestors also resorted to stone pelting and wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty," the police alleged. "Under these circumstances, only the minimum required force was used to contain these aggressive and violent protestors. "However, after using water cannon and tear gas shells on a limited scale, the situation was brought under control, and thereafter use of any force was discontinued forthwith, resorting again to persuasive tactics," they added. Seven police personnel, including an assistant commissioner of police, were injured during this process. The ACP suffered a shoulder dislocation after he was roughed up by some of the protesters, the police said. No other serious injury was reported to Delhi Police, they said. The situation was brought under control and was closely monitored thereafter so as to facilitate talks between leaders of the farmers union and the government. The city police had on Monday imposed prohibitory orders in east and northeast Delhi, anticipating law and order problems as thousands of BKU headed for Delhi. The main demands of the agitating farmers include implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission report, removing ban on the use of tractors which are more than 10 years old, clearing out pending payments of sugarcane purchase, increased price of sugar supplied and minimum support prices.

ACP among 7 cops injured during farmers' protest, Police claim they used 'minimum force' 

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/protesting-farmers-not-satisfied-govt-assurance-naresh-tikait-168974">farmers' protests</a> in the capital city.

The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-police-use-water-cannon-tear-gas-farmers-protests-intensify-near-delhi-border">break barricades</a> through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them.&nbsp;

The statement mentioned that announcements were regularly made about the promulgation of section 144 and requests were made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcefully on tractor-trolleys.&nbsp;

"Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till the outcome of talks of their leaders with the government, a section of the crowd turned violent and tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathi," the statement added.&nbsp;

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Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till outcome of talks of their leaders with govt, a section of crowd turned violent &amp; tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys &amp; were also carrying lathis: Delhi Police on today's action on protesting farmers <a href="https://t.co/WJ9pnDTGRm">pic.twitter.com/WJ9pnDTGRm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047098110533689345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The protestors were assured by their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels. &nbsp;

The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them.&nbsp;

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Some protestors resorted to stone pelting&amp;wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty. Under these circumstances, only minimum reqd force was used to contain these aggressive&amp;violent protestors. (File pic of police action on protestors at UP-Delhi border) <a href="https://t.co/VyEXBF1gYD">pic.twitter.com/VyEXBF1gYD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047098114144985089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance.

"We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the farmers' protests in the capital city. The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to break barricades through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday issued a statement over the measures undertaken to curb the farmers' protests in the capital city. The police said that the farmers turned violent and tried to break barricades through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathis even when the security issued persuasive methods to deal with them. The statement mentioned that announcements were regularly made about the promulgation of section 144 and requests were made not to attempt entry into Delhi forcefully on tractor-trolleys. "Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till the outcome of talks of their leaders with the government, a section of the crowd turned violent and tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys and were also carrying lathi," the statement added. Despite persuasive methods requesting them to wait till outcome of talks of their leaders with govt, a section of crowd turned violent & tried to break barricades forcefully through tractor-trolleys & were also carrying lathis: Delhi Police on today's action on protesting farmers pic.twitter.com/WJ9pnDTGRm — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 × The protestors were assured by their leaders that their demands are being projected at appropriate levels. The farmers were marching towards Delhi over demands ranging from farm loan waiver to cut in fuel prices but were stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border with police using water cannons to disperse them. Some protestors resorted to stone pelting&wielded lathis causing injuries to police personnel deployed on duty. Under these circumstances, only minimum reqd force was used to contain these aggressive&violent protestors. (File pic of police action on protestors at UP-Delhi border) pic.twitter.com/VyEXBF1gYD — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2018 × Naresh Tikait, the chief of Bharat Kisan Union (BKU), which has given the protest call, said the farmers are "not satisfied" with the government's assurance. "We will discuss this and then decide on future course of action. I can't decide anything alone, our committee will take the decision," he added.

Crowd turned violent despite requests: Delhi Police on action against protesting farmers

Concerned over mounting cane arrears of more than Rs 22,000 crore, the government is likely to announce a bailout package of over Rs 7,000 crore to ensure cash-starved mills clear dues to farmers at the earliest, sources said.&nbsp;

A decision in this regard is expected to be taken in the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) scheduled tomorrow, the sources added.&nbsp;

Last month, the government had announced a Rs 1,500 crore production-linked subsidy for sugarcane farmers to help millers pay cane payments.

Sugar mills are unable to make payments to cane growers as their financial health has worsened due to a sharp fall in sugar prices after a record production of 31.6 million tonne (MT) so far in the 2017-18 season (October-September).

Maximum cane dues of more than Rs 12,000 crore are in Uttar Pradesh alone, the country's biggest sugarcane producing state.

According to sources, the government has worked out a slew of measures to ensure farmers' dues are cleared by mills. "A bailout package of Rs 7,000 crore has been proposed," they added.

The Food Ministry has proposed creation of a buffer stock of 3 million tonnes of sugar. The carrying cost of the sweetener would be borne by the government which is estimated to cost the exchequer around Rs 1,300 crore, they said.&nbsp;

Besides setting up of the buffer stock, the food ministry has proposed fixing minimum ex-mill sale price at around Rs 30 per kg, reintroducing the monthly release mechanism and imposing stock limits on mills by fixing quota for each mill.

To help beleaguered sugar industry, the petroleum ministry has proposed interest subsidy of 6 per cent on Rs 4,500 crore to sugar mills for expansion and creation of new capacity of ethanol. The scheme provides five years time to mills for repayment of loans and a moratorium on repayment in the first year.

The interest subsidy itself would cost Rs 1,200 crore to the government, the source added.

The petroleum ministry is also looking at raising ethanol price so that mills make payment to farmers at the earliest.&nbsp;

Presently, the average ex-mill price of sugar is in the range of Rs 25.60-26.22 per kg, which is below the cost of production.

The Centre has already doubled sugar import duty to 100 per cent and scrapped export duty to check sliding domestic prices. It has also asked mills to export 2 million tonnes of sugar.

&nbsp;

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According to sources, the government has worked out a slew of measures to ensure farmers' dues are cleared by mills. 'A bailout package of Rs 7,000 crore has been proposed'

Concerned over mounting cane arrears of more than Rs 22,000 crore, the government is likely to announce a bailout package of over Rs 7,000 crore to ensure cash-starved mills clear dues to farmers at the earliest, sources said. A decision in this regard is expected to be taken in the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) scheduled tomorrow, the sources added. Last month, the government had announced a Rs 1,500 crore production-linked subsidy for sugarcane farmers to help millers pay cane payments. Sugar mills are unable to make payments to cane growers as their financial health has worsened due to a sharp fall in sugar prices after a record production of 31.6 million tonne (MT) so far in the 2017-18 season (October-September). Maximum cane dues of more than Rs 12,000 crore are in Uttar Pradesh alone, the country's biggest sugarcane producing state. According to sources, the government has worked out a slew of measures to ensure farmers' dues are cleared by mills. "A bailout package of Rs 7,000 crore has been proposed," they added. The Food Ministry has proposed creation of a buffer stock of 3 million tonnes of sugar. The carrying cost of the sweetener would be borne by the government which is estimated to cost the exchequer around Rs 1,300 crore, they said. Besides setting up of the buffer stock, the food ministry has proposed fixing minimum ex-mill sale price at around Rs 30 per kg, reintroducing the monthly release mechanism and imposing stock limits on mills by fixing quota for each mill. To help beleaguered sugar industry, the petroleum ministry has proposed interest subsidy of 6 per cent on Rs 4,500 crore to sugar mills for expansion and creation of new capacity of ethanol. The scheme provides five years time to mills for repayment of loans and a moratorium on repayment in the first year. The interest subsidy itself would cost Rs 1,200 crore to the government, the source added. The petroleum ministry is also looking at raising ethanol price so that mills make payment to farmers at the earliest. Presently, the average ex-mill price of sugar is in the range of Rs 25.60-26.22 per kg, which is below the cost of production. The Centre has already doubled sugar import duty to 100 per cent and scrapped export duty to check sliding domestic prices. It has also asked mills to export 2 million tonnes of sugar.

Government likely to announce Rs 7,000-crore bailout package for sugar mills

A surge in the prices of vegetable was seen in several parts of Punjab and Haryana on the third day of the farmers' protest.

The protests also hit the supply of milk in the region.

The farmers in the two states continued to dump their produce on roads on Sunday.

The agitation was&nbsp;launched on Friday (June 1) when the farmers started a 10-day nationwide protest against the government&nbsp;demanding a waiver of loans and the right price for crops. The protest was launched by farmers from&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

The demands also include&nbsp;the implementation of recommendations of Swaminathan Commission.

The agitation is conveyed by the&nbsp;Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh which is the umbrella organisation and over 100 outfits are taking part in it.

The protest is likely to hit the supply of essential items like milk and vegetables in the days to come.

On Saturday, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated the reason for the protest as a `non-issue`."They don`t have any issue they are just focusing on unnecessary things through this strike. Not selling produce will bring losses to the farmers only," Khattar said.

As part of the protest, farmers have shut down the supply of milk, vegetables and essential farm produce due to which the vegetable prices in the market have gone up.

On the last day of the protest on June 10, the farmers` bodies will organise `Bharat Bandh`.&nbsp;

The protest is likely to hit the supply of essential items like milk and vegetables in the days to come

A surge in the prices of vegetable was seen in several parts of Punjab and Haryana on the third day of the farmers' protest. The protests also hit the supply of milk in the region. The farmers in the two states continued to dump their produce on roads on Sunday. The agitation was launched on Friday (June 1) when the farmers started a 10-day nationwide protest against the government demanding a waiver of loans and the right price for crops. The protest was launched by farmers from Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The demands also include the implementation of recommendations of Swaminathan Commission. The agitation is conveyed by the Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh which is the umbrella organisation and over 100 outfits are taking part in it. The protest is likely to hit the supply of essential items like milk and vegetables in the days to come. On Saturday, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated the reason for the protest as a `non-issue`."They don`t have any issue they are just focusing on unnecessary things through this strike. Not selling produce will bring losses to the farmers only," Khattar said. As part of the protest, farmers have shut down the supply of milk, vegetables and essential farm produce due to which the vegetable prices in the market have gone up. On the last day of the protest on June 10, the farmers` bodies will organise `Bharat Bandh`.

Farmers' agitation hits milk supply, vegetable prices go up

A day after farmers across the country initiated a 10-day nationwide protest,&nbsp;Congress president Rahul Gandhi has decided to join the protest on June 6.

He took to Twitter and announced on Saturday, " About thirty-five farmers commit suicide in our country every day. The farmers are forced to stage a protest for 10 days to bring the issue of agricultural crisis to the centre's notice. I will address the farmers rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on June 6 to participate in the&nbsp;farmers' fight".

Gandhi&nbsp;will address the farmers&nbsp;in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on the anniversary of the death of seven farmers in police firing in the state.

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike and they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbsp;

The strike was organised by farmers from Punjab and Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala&nbsp;demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price for their produce and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission,

The farmers'&nbsp;body will also&nbsp;orgainse a "Bharat Bandh" on June 10.

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हमारे देश में हर रोज़ 35 किसान आत्महत्या करते हैं। कृषि क्षेत्र पर छाए संकट की तरफ़ केंद्र सरकार का ध्यान ले जाने के लिए किसान भाई 10 दिनों का आंदोलन करने पर मजबूर हैं। हमारे अन्नदाताओं की हक की लड़ाई में उनके साथ खड़े होने के लिए 6 जून को मंदसौर में किसान रैली को संबोधित करूंगा। <a href="https://t.co/Bv4Hv72jE8">pic.twitter.com/Bv4Hv72jE8</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1002843619382841344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Seven farmers had been shot dead by police in Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur on June 6 last year. The farmers had been agitating for better prices for their crops

A day after farmers across the country initiated a 10-day nationwide protest, Congress president Rahul Gandhi has decided to join the protest on June 6. He took to Twitter and announced on Saturday, " About thirty-five farmers commit suicide in our country every day. The farmers are forced to stage a protest for 10 days to bring the issue of agricultural crisis to the centre's notice. I will address the farmers rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on June 6 to participate in the farmers' fight". Gandhi will address the farmers in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on the anniversary of the death of seven farmers in police firing in the state. Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike and they would not sell their produce in cities. The strike was organised by farmers from Punjab and Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price for their produce and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission, The farmers' body will also orgainse a "Bharat Bandh" on June 10. हमारे देश में हर रोज़ 35 किसान आत्महत्या करते हैं। कृषि क्षेत्र पर छाए संकट की तरफ़ केंद्र सरकार का ध्यान ले जाने के लिए किसान भाई 10 दिनों का आंदोलन करने पर मजबूर हैं। हमारे अन्नदाताओं की हक की लड़ाई में उनके साथ खड़े होने के लिए 6 जून को मंदसौर में किसान रैली को संबोधित करूंगा। pic.twitter.com/Bv4Hv72jE8 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 2, 2018 ×

Rahul Gandhi to address farmers' protest on June 6 in Mandsaur, MP

Nearly 30,000 farmers in Maharashtra, marching from Nashik to Mumbai to protest what they term as government&#39;s anti-farmer policies, reached Thane on Friday morning.&nbsp;

The 180-km-long march is led by All India Kisan Sabha&nbsp;National President Ashok Davle, local MLA J P Gavit and other leaders.

Davle claimed that&nbsp;1,753 farmers have killed themselves since June last year when the BJP-led state government announced a conditional farm loan waiver of Rs 34,000 crore.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>: All India Kisan Sabha protest reaches Thane. More than 30,000 farmers from across the state of Maharashtra are heading towards Mumbai from Nashik demanding a complete loan waiver for the farmers of the state. The march will reach Mumbai on 12th March. <a href="https://t.co/pvadOFrxQr">pic.twitter.com/pvadOFrxQr</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971942163436072961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Apart from seeking a complete waiver of farmers&#39; loans and electricity bills, the farmers&nbsp;are demanding the implementation of recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission, which addresses issues of providing minimum support prices (MSP) and safeguarding interests of small farmers.

Davle accused the BJP government of having betrayed farmers. He said that&nbsp;promises made have remained unfulfilled.

He is also demanding transfer of forest land to those who have been tilling it for years and an increase in the compensation for peasants whose crops were damaged in the recent hailstorms and pink bollworm infestation.

Farmers and farm labourers in large number from various districts of the state gathered in Nashik city before setting off on a six-day &lsquo;long march&rsquo; to Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon.

They aim to reach Mumbai by Monday and gherao the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha on March 12.

The Devendra Fadnavis government has been under immense pressure after continuous protests by farmers who alleged that he did not honour assurances given to farmers for a farm loan waiver of Rs. 34,000 crore in June last year. 
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The 180-km-long march is led by All India Kisan Sabha

Nearly 30,000 farmers in Maharashtra, marching from Nashik to Mumbai to protest what they term as government's anti-farmer policies, reached Thane on Friday morning. The 180-km-long march is led by All India Kisan Sabha National President Ashok Davle, local MLA J P Gavit and other leaders. Davle claimed that 1,753 farmers have killed themselves since June last year when the BJP-led state government announced a conditional farm loan waiver of Rs 34,000 crore. #Maharashtra: All India Kisan Sabha protest reaches Thane. More than 30,000 farmers from across the state of Maharashtra are heading towards Mumbai from Nashik demanding a complete loan waiver for the farmers of the state. The march will reach Mumbai on 12th March. pic.twitter.com/pvadOFrxQr — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2018 × Apart from seeking a complete waiver of farmers' loans and electricity bills, the farmers are demanding the implementation of recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission, which addresses issues of providing minimum support prices (MSP) and safeguarding interests of small farmers. Davle accused the BJP government of having betrayed farmers. He said that promises made have remained unfulfilled. He is also demanding transfer of forest land to those who have been tilling it for years and an increase in the compensation for peasants whose crops were damaged in the recent hailstorms and pink bollworm infestation. Farmers and farm labourers in large number from various districts of the state gathered in Nashik city before setting off on a six-day ‘long march’ to Mumbai on Tuesday afternoon. They aim to reach Mumbai by Monday and gherao the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha on March 12. The Devendra Fadnavis government has been under immense pressure after continuous protests by farmers who alleged that he did not honour assurances given to farmers for a farm loan waiver of Rs. 34,000 crore in June last year.

Maharashtra: 30,000 farmers head towards Mumbai to demand complete loan waiver

Curfew in the violence-hit Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh will be relaxed from 10 am to 6 pm, today.

Mandsaur District Collector Om Prakash Srivastava, on Thursday, said curfew would be relaxed for longer periods today in the district.

&quot;Curfew would be relaxed for longer hours tomorrow. ATMs will be opened, milk, petrol and diesel availability will also be ensured,&quot; Srivastava told ANI.

Curfew was relaxed for a few hours last evening.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has ordered a judicial enquiry into the deaths of five farmers during the recent agitation.

He has announced a compensation of Rs one crore to the kin of those killed and Rs five lakh for those injured in the violence.

Internet services in Mandsaur, Ratlam and Ujjain remained suspended following the farmers&#39; protests.

Mandsaur has been facing a tense situation with farmers protesting over their demands for remunerative prices for their produce and a farm loan waiver not being met.

This, unfortunately, took an ugly turn earlier on Tuesday when five farmers were killed and eight others were injured in police firing.

(ANI)

The curfew in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, will be relaxed from 10 am to 6 pm

Curfew in the violence-hit Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh will be relaxed from 10 am to 6 pm, today. Mandsaur District Collector Om Prakash Srivastava, on Thursday, said curfew would be relaxed for longer periods today in the district. "Curfew would be relaxed for longer hours tomorrow. ATMs will be opened, milk, petrol and diesel availability will also be ensured," Srivastava told ANI. Curfew was relaxed for a few hours last evening. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has ordered a judicial enquiry into the deaths of five farmers during the recent agitation. He has announced a compensation of Rs one crore to the kin of those killed and Rs five lakh for those injured in the violence. Internet services in Mandsaur, Ratlam and Ujjain remained suspended following the farmers' protests. Mandsaur has been facing a tense situation with farmers protesting over their demands for remunerative prices for their produce and a farm loan waiver not being met. This, unfortunately, took an ugly turn earlier on Tuesday when five farmers were killed and eight others were injured in police firing. (ANI)

Curfew in violence-hit Mandsaur to be relaxed today: Collector

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