<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p><meta charset="utf-8"/>Protesting farmers, blocked thrice from marching to Delhi, have declared a statewide ‘Rail Roko’ agitation in Punjab on December 18, urging unity among farmer unions.</p></p>
<p dir="ltr">Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the residents of Punjab’s 13,000 villages to block railway tracks from 12 to 3 pm. “We appeal to everyone living near railway crossings to join this movement,” Pandher said at a press conference at the Shambhu border in Patiala.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Pandher also reached out to Rakesh Tikait-led Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), the prominent farmers' group that led last year's protest against the now-repealed farm laws. In a letter, Pandher invited SKM to join the 'Rail Roko' protest, calling for unity despite past differences. “Let’s unite for the welfare of farmers and labourers,” Pandher stated.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Previous attempts to enter Delhi stopped</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Farmers tried to enter Delhi on foot three times—on December 6, 8, and 14. Each time, the police stopped them. On December 14, the police used tear gas, injuring 17 farmers. Despite these obstacles, the farmers are still holding their ground at the Punjab-Haryana border and are determined to continue their protest.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Impact of the protest</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The farmers plan to block important railway routes in Punjab, which is expected to cause major disruption. This is the latest step in their ongoing protest against policies they believe harm their interests.</p>
<p dir="ltr">All eyes will be on December 18 to see if the protest gains support and if SKM joins in.</p>
<p>(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>) </p>


Pandher also contacted the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), led by Rakesh Tikait, the well-known farmers' group that led last year's protest against the farm laws that were later repealed. 



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

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

<p>The 2024 United States presidential elections dominated the country and also the search results of Merriam-Webster which finally culminated in "polarisation" becoming the word of the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Polarisation means division, but it’s a very specific kind of division,” said Peter Sokolowski, who is editor of Merriam-Webster in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Polarisation means that we are tending toward the extremes rather than toward the centre," Sokolowski added.</p>

<p>The entry for “polarisation” in the Merriam-Webster reflected on scientific and metaphorical definitions. The word is commonly used to mean “causing strong disagreement between opposing factions or groupings.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Merriam-Webster, which receives more than 100 million page views every month on its website, chose the word of the year based on the data and tracked the increase of word in search and usage.</p>

<p>Their 2023 word of the year was “authentic.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brain-rot-emerges-as-oxford-word-of-the-year-are-you-suffering-from-it-780837">'Brain rot' emerges as Oxford word of the year. Are you suffering from it?</a></p>

<p>“It’s always been important to me that the dictionary serves as a kind of neutral and objective arbiter of meaning for everybody,” said Sokolowski.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“It’s a kind of backstop for meaning in an era of fake news, alternative facts, whatever you want to say about the value of a word’s meaning in the culture," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The word “polarisation” originated in the early 1800s, Sokolowski said. He said that it is a “pretty young word". “Polarised is a term that brings intensity to another word,” he said.</p>

<p>“The basic job of the dictionary is to tell the truth about words. We’ve had dictionaries of English for 420 years and it’s only been in the last 20 years or so that we’ve actually known which words people look up," explained the Merriam-Webster editor.</p>

<p>“Search volume on Merriam-Webster.com throughout the year reflected the desire of Americans to better understand the complex state of affairs in our country and around the world,” the dictionary added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Other words which topped search results on Merriam-Webster</strong></h2>

<p>Along with "polarisation", other popular words related to politics&nbsp;also made it to the word of the year list of the dictionary. This included words like “democracy”, "pander", "weird", "cognitive", and "demure".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;‘Brat’ is Collins' Word of the Year</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brat-is-collins-word-of-the-year-772615/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The word “democracy” received bipartisan attention across blue and red states and people searching for it “fully understand what it means—and to challenge, celebrate, and protect it,” as per Merriam-Webster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The word democracy never appears in the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution, but it has long been a focus of American and global attention, rarely more so than now,” the dictionary added in its explanation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The 2024 United States presidential elections dominated the country and also the search results of Merriam-Webster which finally culminated in "polarisation" becoming the word of the year.

The 2024 United States presidential elections dominated the country and also the search results of Merriam-Webster which finally culminated in "polarisation" becoming the word of the year. “Polarisation means division, but it’s a very specific kind of division,” said Peter Sokolowski, who is editor of Merriam-Webster in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press. “Polarisation means that we are tending toward the extremes rather than toward the centre," Sokolowski added. The entry for “polarisation” in the Merriam-Webster reflected on scientific and metaphorical definitions. The word is commonly used to mean “causing strong disagreement between opposing factions or groupings.” Merriam-Webster, which receives more than 100 million page views every month on its website, chose the word of the year based on the data and tracked the increase of word in search and usage. Their 2023 word of the year was “authentic.” Also Read: 'Brain rot' emerges as Oxford word of the year. Are you suffering from it? “It’s always been important to me that the dictionary serves as a kind of neutral and objective arbiter of meaning for everybody,” said Sokolowski. “It’s a kind of backstop for meaning in an era of fake news, alternative facts, whatever you want to say about the value of a word’s meaning in the culture," he added. The word “polarisation” originated in the early 1800s, Sokolowski said. He said that it is a “pretty young word". “Polarised is a term that brings intensity to another word,” he said. “The basic job of the dictionary is to tell the truth about words. We’ve had dictionaries of English for 420 years and it’s only been in the last 20 years or so that we’ve actually known which words people look up," explained the Merriam-Webster editor. “Search volume on Merriam-Webster.com throughout the year reflected the desire of Americans to better understand the complex state of affairs in our country and around the world,” the dictionary added. Other words which topped search results on Merriam-Webster Along with "polarisation", other popular words related to politics also made it to the word of the year list of the dictionary. This included words like “democracy”, "pander", "weird", "cognitive", and "demure". Watch: ‘Brat’ is Collins' Word of the Year The word “democracy” received bipartisan attention across blue and red states and people searching for it “fully understand what it means—and to challenge, celebrate, and protect it,” as per Merriam-Webster. “The word democracy never appears in the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution, but it has long been a focus of American and global attention, rarely more so than now,” the dictionary added in its explanation. (With inputs from agencies)

Braving severe cold, these farmers jump into frozen lake in Kashmir to harvest lotus stems

<p>Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent&nbsp;them from crossing the border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-bracing-for-traffic-chaos-as-punjab-farmers-vow-to-continue-march-781879"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today</strong></a></p>

<p>The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border.<br />
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The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. <a href="https://t.co/TQyigtUF6K">pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864967534296076387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shambhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shambhu</a> border.<br />
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The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a><br />
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(Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/Vi8h2rK94U">pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1864954577810022488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>'Farmers' demand is justified'</strong></h2>

<p>Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country."</p>

<p>"Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Govt turned back on its word'</strong></h2>

<p>Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border.

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border. Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6). As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border. The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land. Also read: Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people. #WATCH | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2024 × The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further. Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi. VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at #Shambhu border. The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2024 × 'Farmers' demand is justified' Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country." "Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added. 'Govt turned back on its word' Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done. "The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells, injuring many protesters

Top headlines of the hour: - J&K Shivers, Srinagar Records -41 Degree Celsius - Thousands Rally In Romania - China's Warning To Taiwan - Tear Gas Fired At Farmers

Thousands Rally In Romania | China's Warning To Taiwan | Tear Gas Fired At Farmers | WION Headlines

<p>The European Commission may weaken the protection for grey wolves in the region, ending 45 years of Annex II (strictly protected) to Annex III (protected) of the Bern Convention, according to BBC. The move could allow more wolves to become vulnerable to mass culls.</p>

<p>The Bern Convention, officially called the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, works to safeguard wild animals, plants, and natural habitats.</p>

<p>After their near extinction in the mid-20th century, conservation efforts and EU policies helped grow wolves population over 19,000 in Europe.</p>

<p>Currently, the estimated population of wolves in the EU is over 20,000.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-recipe-for-disaster-deep-frying-a-turkey-costs-family-their-4mn-mansion-781045">A recipe for disaster: Deep-frying a turkey costs family their $4mn mansion</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the recent proposal by the Bern Convention would allow EU countries to set an annual limit of wolves to kill, leading to a debate between the farmers and environmentalists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farmers argue that despite protective measures like electric fences and guard dogs, wolves attack their livestock, leading to huge losses. While they receive financial compensation, the measures are not enough for them.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-lab-leak-likely-behind-covid-pandemic-finds-us-investigation-780981">Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, environmentalists reject the proposal, saying that trained sheepdogs are effective for protecting livestock. They believe wolves are a crucial part of the ecosystem and help control deer and wild boar populations. These animals can result in harm to crops and trees. Moreover, wolves can also reduce the spread of diseases by eating ailing animals.</p>

<p>Campaigners also refer to a 2023 EU report, which reveals that only around 50,000 of 68 million sheep and goats are killed by wolves in the EU every year, which is a small percentage of 0.065% of the total population. Additionally, there have not been any fatal wolf attacks on humans for 40 years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The European Commission may weaken the protection for grey wolves in the region, ending 45 years of Annex II (strictly protected) to Annex III (protected) of the Bern Convention, according to BBC.

The European Commission may weaken the protection for grey wolves in the region, ending 45 years of Annex II (strictly protected) to Annex III (protected) of the Bern Convention, according to BBC. The move could allow more wolves to become vulnerable to mass culls. The Bern Convention, officially called the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, works to safeguard wild animals, plants, and natural habitats. After their near extinction in the mid-20th century, conservation efforts and EU policies helped grow wolves population over 19,000 in Europe. Currently, the estimated population of wolves in the EU is over 20,000. Also read | A recipe for disaster: Deep-frying a turkey costs family their $4mn mansion However, the recent proposal by the Bern Convention would allow EU countries to set an annual limit of wolves to kill, leading to a debate between the farmers and environmentalists. The farmers argue that despite protective measures like electric fences and guard dogs, wolves attack their livestock, leading to huge losses. While they receive financial compensation, the measures are not enough for them. Also read | Wuhan lab leak likely behind Covid pandemic, finds US investigation On the other hand, environmentalists reject the proposal, saying that trained sheepdogs are effective for protecting livestock. They believe wolves are a crucial part of the ecosystem and help control deer and wild boar populations. These animals can result in harm to crops and trees. Moreover, wolves can also reduce the spread of diseases by eating ailing animals. Campaigners also refer to a 2023 EU report, which reveals that only around 50,000 of 68 million sheep and goats are killed by wolves in the EU every year, which is a small percentage of 0.065% of the total population. Additionally, there have not been any fatal wolf attacks on humans for 40 years. (With inputs from agencies)

European Commission proposes weakening of safeguards for wolves, sparking controversy

Farmers in China's Xinjiang province are turning a desert into a thriving farmland by growing apples and harvesting crabs. The region has adopted an innovative way of inhibiting wind and fixing sand by planting trees to shield apple trees from harsh conditions. Today, the once barren land is returning the favor as billions of dollars in revenue.

China's Desert Farming Wonders

French farmers are preparing a wave of protests against a controversial trade agreement. The farmers argue that the deal between the EU and Mercosur block of countries threatens their livelihood. They claim that the deal allows a surge of South American agricultural imports produced under less stringent environmental standards. The deal is currently under negotiations and aims to open markets between the European Union and South America's Mercosur block. Watch in for more details!

French Farmers Protest Mercosur Deal, Demand Fair Trade

<p>NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre senior research scientist Hiren Jethva recently said that even though the number of reported incidents of stubble burning has gone down, there has been no decrease in aerosol levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further questioned if the farmers in northwest India and Pakistan have been escaping detection of fires by the satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to X on October 25, Jethva said, "Are farmers in NW India and Pakistan avoiding satellite overpass time for stubble burning? A close eyeballing of GEO-KOMPSAT 2A geostationary satellite images shows localised puffs/clouds of smoke in the late afternoon. Needs ground checking."</p>

<p>He also shared a satellite image of stubble burning taken in the afternoon and wondered who had taught them to change the pattern.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Are farmers in NW India and Pakistan avoiding satellite overpass time for stubble burning ? A close eyeballing of GEO-KOMPSAT 2A geostationary satellite images show localized puffs/clouds of smoke in late afernoon. Needs ground checking. <a href="https://t.co/625gDs1ecD">pic.twitter.com/625gDs1ecD</a></p>
— Hiren Jethva (@hjethva05) <a href="https://twitter.com/hjethva05/status/1849578536128086531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a post shared on October 28, Jethva said: "(The delusional) drastic downward trend in fire detection in NW India since 2022 but aerosol loading in the atmosphere has increased (or near stable). Raises suspicion if farm fires are ignited after satellite overpass time."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-fog-alert-for-north-india-flight-operations-likely-affected-in-delhi-777018">IMD issues fog alert for North India, flight operations likely affected in Delhi</a></p>

<p>Speaking to The Times Of India, Jethva said that the fire activities in Punjab are being carried out in the late afternoon.</p>

<p>"Intentionally, avoiding NASA-NOAA satellite overpass time, which falls around 1.30 to 2 pm IST, could be one reason.... The shortwave infrared radiation data and imagery from Korea's geostationary satellite GEO-KOMPSAT-2A (GK2A) show fire activities concentrated during late afternoon hours past the Nasa-NOAA satellite overpass time," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi chokes as stubble burning continues&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Aqua satellite of Nasa and the Suomi-NPP satellite of Nasa-NOAA flies over India and Pakistan from 1.30 pm to 2 pm IST. Another Korean satellite, which is in geostationary orbit, has been surveying the same region every 10 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Delhi Air Pollution: Physical Classes Discontinued For All Except Classes 10 &amp; 12</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-air-pollution-physical-classes-discontinued-for-all-except-classes-10-12-777060/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>From September 15 to November 17, 8,404 stubble burning incidents have been recorded in Punjab in comparison to 33,082 last year.</p>

<p>Delhi has been choking in one of the worst pollution as the average air quality index (AQI) has hit 487 and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 has been kicked in by the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre senior research scientist Hiren Jethva recently said that even though the number of reported incidents of stubble burning has gone down, there has been no decrease in aerosol levels.

NASA Goddard Space Flight Centre senior research scientist Hiren Jethva recently said that even though the number of reported incidents of stubble burning has gone down, there has been no decrease in aerosol levels. He further questioned if the farmers in northwest India and Pakistan have been escaping detection of fires by the satellite. Taking to X on October 25, Jethva said, "Are farmers in NW India and Pakistan avoiding satellite overpass time for stubble burning? A close eyeballing of GEO-KOMPSAT 2A geostationary satellite images shows localised puffs/clouds of smoke in the late afternoon. Needs ground checking." He also shared a satellite image of stubble burning taken in the afternoon and wondered who had taught them to change the pattern. Are farmers in NW India and Pakistan avoiding satellite overpass time for stubble burning ? A close eyeballing of GEO-KOMPSAT 2A geostationary satellite images show localized puffs/clouds of smoke in late afernoon. Needs ground checking. pic.twitter.com/625gDs1ecD — Hiren Jethva (@hjethva05) October 24, 2024 × In a post shared on October 28, Jethva said: "(The delusional) drastic downward trend in fire detection in NW India since 2022 but aerosol loading in the atmosphere has increased (or near stable). Raises suspicion if farm fires are ignited after satellite overpass time." Also Read: IMD issues fog alert for North India, flight operations likely affected in Delhi Speaking to The Times Of India, Jethva said that the fire activities in Punjab are being carried out in the late afternoon. "Intentionally, avoiding NASA-NOAA satellite overpass time, which falls around 1.30 to 2 pm IST, could be one reason.... The shortwave infrared radiation data and imagery from Korea's geostationary satellite GEO-KOMPSAT-2A (GK2A) show fire activities concentrated during late afternoon hours past the Nasa-NOAA satellite overpass time," he said. Delhi chokes as stubble burning continues The Aqua satellite of Nasa and the Suomi-NPP satellite of Nasa-NOAA flies over India and Pakistan from 1.30 pm to 2 pm IST. Another Korean satellite, which is in geostationary orbit, has been surveying the same region every 10 minutes. Watch: Delhi Air Pollution: Physical Classes Discontinued For All Except Classes 10 & 12 From September 15 to November 17, 8,404 stubble burning incidents have been recorded in Punjab in comparison to 33,082 last year. Delhi has been choking in one of the worst pollution as the average air quality index (AQI) has hit 487 and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 has been kicked in by the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi pollution crisis: NASA scientist claims farmers concealing stubble burning from satellite

The UK government’s latest budget has introduced a cap on inheritance tax relief for agricultural assets, setting a limit of $1.3 million. Beginning in April 2026, farms valued above this threshold will face a 20% inheritance tax.

UK Farmers Face Inheritance Tax Cap, Tax Relief Limit Set At $1.3 Mn

<p>Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Thursday (Oct 24) said farmers will resort to a road blockade at a few places in Punjab for an indefinite period from October 26 to protest against the "tardy" paddy procurement and other issues.</p>

<p>Pandher said the "chakka jam" for an indefinite period will be held at one place each in Sangrur and Moga districts and at Phagwara and Batala.<br />
<br />
He told reporters here that the farmers will protest against the "tardy" paddy procurement and lifting, the DAP fertiliser supplies not being adequate, besides over the stubble-burning issue.</p>

<p>He said "red entries" have been made in the farm records of farmers burning stubble and cases slapped on them.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-home-minister-shah-assures-jammu-kashmir-statehood-to-cm-abdullah-770408">Indian Home Minister Amit Shah assures Jammu and Kashmir statehood to CM Abdullah</a></strong></p>

<p>"These four points will be blocked for an indefinite period. We can block the entire Punjab, but we still want to give time to the government.... Otherwise we will be forced to fight a do-or-die battle," the farmer leader said.</p>

<p>Pandher, who was talking to reporters here, during which some leaders of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) were also present, blamed the Punjab government as well as the BJP-led Centre for the farmers' plight.</p>

<p>Paddy lifting from "mandis" (wholesale markets) in Punjab is hit after the state rice millers refused to mill the paddy till their demands were met.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bar-association-upset-over-supreme-courts-new-lady-justice-statue-calls-it-radical-change-770395">Bar association upset over Supreme Court's new 'Lady Justice' statue, calls it 'radical change'</a></strong></p>

<p>Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday, urging him to address the issues of the state's rice millers.</p>

<p>While the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab has blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre for not evacuating the foodgrain stock in the state to create sufficient space for storing fresh crops, the opposition? Congress and Akali Dal have slammed the Mann government for the slow paddy procurement and lifting.</p>

<p>Hitting out at the AAP, Pandher said neither Arvind Kejriwal nor any of his leaders are speaking out over the farmers' plight.</p>

<p>"When Kejriwal was arrested (earlier this year), all the Punjab AAP MLAs went to Delhi to express solidarity. Can't they march now for the sake of farmers?" he asked.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Thursday (Oct 24) said farmers will resort to a road blockade at a few places in Punjab for an indefinite period from October 26 to protest against the "tardy" paddy procurement and other issues.

Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Thursday (Oct 24) said farmers will resort to a road blockade at a few places in Punjab for an indefinite period from October 26 to protest against the "tardy" paddy procurement and other issues. Pandher said the "chakka jam" for an indefinite period will be held at one place each in Sangrur and Moga districts and at Phagwara and Batala. He told reporters here that the farmers will protest against the "tardy" paddy procurement and lifting, the DAP fertiliser supplies not being adequate, besides over the stubble-burning issue. He said "red entries" have been made in the farm records of farmers burning stubble and cases slapped on them. Also Read | Indian Home Minister Amit Shah assures Jammu and Kashmir statehood to CM Abdullah "These four points will be blocked for an indefinite period. We can block the entire Punjab, but we still want to give time to the government.... Otherwise we will be forced to fight a do-or-die battle," the farmer leader said. Pandher, who was talking to reporters here, during which some leaders of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) were also present, blamed the Punjab government as well as the BJP-led Centre for the farmers' plight. Paddy lifting from "mandis" (wholesale markets) in Punjab is hit after the state rice millers refused to mill the paddy till their demands were met. Also Read | Bar association upset over Supreme Court's new 'Lady Justice' statue, calls it 'radical change' Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday, urging him to address the issues of the state's rice millers. While the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab has blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Centre for not evacuating the foodgrain stock in the state to create sufficient space for storing fresh crops, the opposition? Congress and Akali Dal have slammed the Mann government for the slow paddy procurement and lifting. Hitting out at the AAP, Pandher said neither Arvind Kejriwal nor any of his leaders are speaking out over the farmers' plight. "When Kejriwal was arrested (earlier this year), all the Punjab AAP MLAs went to Delhi to express solidarity. Can't they march now for the sake of farmers?" he asked. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

‘Tardy’ paddy procurement: Indian farmers to protest, block roads in Punjab on Saturday

An initial amount of 20 million US Dollars will be paid out to both white and black farmers who lost farmland during the era of the late President Robert Mugabe. According to Zimbabwe's finance minister, the payments are part of a series of measures to restore the once-thriving farming sector and help launch a long-promised economic revival.

Zimbabwe Compensates Both White & Black Farmers

Coffee farmers in Uganda are facing an unprecedented challenge of theft. As coffee prices continue to soar…can farmers secure their prized possession?

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Environmental protesters clashed with police in France's western port of La Rochelle Saturday, as conservationists and small farmers mobilised against massive irrigation reservoirs under construction.

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The state of Haryana is called the bread basket of India, producing vast quantities of food grains that feed the country. The 10 parliamentary seats of the state go to polls on May 25 - that's the first electoral test for political parties after the 2020 farmers' protest forced the government to withdraw its farm laws. Take a look at the next report to know why agriculture is at the heart of Haryana's political economy.

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In a big win for Europe's farmers, the European Union has decided to extend farm subsidies until the end of 2024. The extension comes following protests from farmers seeking better pay and working conditions.

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The stakes are high ahead of European Parliament elections in June and one of the biggest stakeholders is pushing back against European policy makers just in time for polls. Europe's Farmers whose months of protests have forced leaders to take note and act on agrarian policies.

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A convoy of tractors drove outside Britain's parliament on Monday (March 25) to protest against post-Brexit trade deals and what they called substandard food imports in the latest demonstrations by farmers globally.

UK farmers drive tractors to London's parliament in protest

<p>Indian farmers held a 'rail roko'&nbsp; or 'stop the trains' protest on Sunday (Mar 10) at noon, which&nbsp;continued for four hours.</p>

<p>The farmers have been holding protests urging the central government to formulate a law for MSP guarantee. MSP or Minimum Support Price denotes the minimum price set by the government for purchasing crops from farmers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This protest is in continuation of the ongoing agitation by Indian farmers, which began on February 13 with the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march (translated to 'March towards Delhi'). As part of the march, over 200 disgruntled farmers' unions mobilised toward the national capital.</p>

<p>The farmers' demands include a law which assures MSP&nbsp;for their crops. Additionally, they are demanding pensions for farmers and labourers, farm debt relief, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, withdrawal of legal cases, and restoration of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, as well as compensation for families affected during previous protests.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-reacts-after-election-commissioner-arun-goel-resigns-say-if-we-dont-stop-698508">Congress reacts after Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigns, say 'If we don't stop...'</a></p>

<p>Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent farmer leader, said, "...As part of the agitation that started at the Punjab-Haryana border on February 13, we have called for 'Rail Roko' across the country today. We urge all farmers, labourers, and common people of the country to support us in the 'Rail Roko' today in large numbers. We also urge those, who want to undertake train travel between 12 pm - 4 pm today, to not do the same for four hours today. People might face a little inconvenience today. This is partial&nbsp;'Rail&nbsp;Roko'..."</p>

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<p>Farmer unions like the Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan), Bharti Kisan Union (Dakaunda-Dhaner), and the Krantikari Kisan Union, all part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, pledged their participation in the 'rail roko' agitation.</p>

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<p>Across approximately 60 locations in the northern states of Haryana and Punjab, hundreds of farmers are anticipated to join the nationwide ‘rail roko’ agitation, which may lead to disruptions in train services.</p>

<p>In anticipation of potential disturbances, authorities in Haryana imposed prohibitory orders known as Section 144 in Ambala district on Sunday (Mar 10), with police deployments in sensitive areas and tightened security at all borders ahead of the&nbsp;protest.</p>

<p>Earlier, farmer leaders turned down the centre's offer to have government agencies purchase pulses, maize, and cotton at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for a span of five years.</p>

<p>The farmers, showing their disinterest, stated that the proposal did not align with the best interests of the farmers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian farmers held a 'rail roko' or 'stop the trains' protest on Sunday (Mar 10) at noon, which continued for four hours. The farmers have been holding protests urging the central government to formulate a law for MSP guarantee.

Indian farmers held a 'rail roko' or 'stop the trains' protest on Sunday (Mar 10) at noon, which continued for four hours. The farmers have been holding protests urging the central government to formulate a law for MSP guarantee. MSP or Minimum Support Price denotes the minimum price set by the government for purchasing crops from farmers. This protest is in continuation of the ongoing agitation by Indian farmers, which began on February 13 with the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march (translated to 'March towards Delhi'). As part of the march, over 200 disgruntled farmers' unions mobilised toward the national capital. The farmers' demands include a law which assures MSP for their crops. Additionally, they are demanding pensions for farmers and labourers, farm debt relief, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, withdrawal of legal cases, and restoration of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, as well as compensation for families affected during previous protests. Also Read | Congress reacts after Election Commissioner Arun Goel resigns, say 'If we don't stop...' Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent farmer leader, said, "...As part of the agitation that started at the Punjab-Haryana border on February 13, we have called for 'Rail Roko' across the country today. We urge all farmers, labourers, and common people of the country to support us in the 'Rail Roko' today in large numbers. We also urge those, who want to undertake train travel between 12 pm - 4 pm today, to not do the same for four hours today. People might face a little inconvenience today. This is partial 'Rail Roko'..." Also Read | India: West Bengal's Trinamool Congress to reveal candidate list for upcoming general elections Farmer unions like the Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan), Bharti Kisan Union (Dakaunda-Dhaner), and the Krantikari Kisan Union, all part of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, pledged their participation in the 'rail roko' agitation. Watch | India: Over $14 billion to spent by political parties, says report × Across approximately 60 locations in the northern states of Haryana and Punjab, hundreds of farmers are anticipated to join the nationwide ‘rail roko’ agitation, which may lead to disruptions in train services. In anticipation of potential disturbances, authorities in Haryana imposed prohibitory orders known as Section 144 in Ambala district on Sunday (Mar 10), with police deployments in sensitive areas and tightened security at all borders ahead of the protest. Earlier, farmer leaders turned down the centre's offer to have government agencies purchase pulses, maize, and cotton at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for a span of five years. The farmers, showing their disinterest, stated that the proposal did not align with the best interests of the farmers. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian farmers launch 'rail roko' protest to highlight their demands, train disruption likely

Protesting farmers clashed with police outside the parliament building in Warsaw on Wednesday, with police using pepper spray and accusing some participants of violence against security forces.

Polish farmers clash with police outside parliament in Warsaw

Indian farmers are resuming their agitation. Farmers will be heading towards New Delhi. Farmers' unions gave a clarion call to farmers from all over the country to reach Jantar Mantar on March 6.

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Farmers protest: Farmers to start marching towards Delhi, police steps up vigil at Tikri, Singhu

<p>Indian farmers are set to resume their 'Dilli Chalo' march on Wednesday (Mar 6) in a bid to amplify their demands&nbsp;over various issues, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance, and relief from debt burden, among others.</p>

<p>Notably, since February 13, farmers have entrenched themselves at various points along Delhi borders with&nbsp;their tractors.</p>

<p>The farmers are demanding a law guaranteeing MSP as well as the withdrawal of prior police charges against protesters during the Lakhimpur Kheri violence,&nbsp;a tragic incident that occurred on October 3, 2021, in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh where a convoy of vehicles clashed with another group resulting in the death of&nbsp;eight people, including four farmers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) issued a nationwide call to converge on Delhi this Wednesday (Mar 6) to continue their protest against the central government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-prime-minister-modi-inaugurates-17-kilometre-extension-of-delhi-ghaziabad-meerut-rrts-corridor-697102">India Prime Minister Modi inaugurates 17-kilometre extension of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor</a></p>

<p>In anticipation, Delhi Police have escalated monitoring at the Tikri, Singhu, and Ghazipur borders in a bid to avoid any untoward incident in light of the demonstrations.&nbsp;"We have stepped up security at all three borders. However, we are not shutting any border or route but vehicle checking will take place," a police officer reportedly said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-inaugurates-indias-first-underwater-metro-other-projects-worth-220mn-697087">PM Modi inaugurates India's first underwater metro, other projects worth $1.85bn</a></p>

<p>"It is the 23rd day of the protest that was launched by the KMM and SKM (non-political). Like we announced earlier, farmers from other states will start marching towards Delhi from today. They won't come on tractor-trolleys and that's why I don't think anyone would be able to reach (Delhi) today. The situation would be clear by March 10," farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said, reported PTI news agency.</p>

<p>Despite encountering hurdles at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana during their initial 'Dilli Chalo' call, farmers remain steadfast in their pursuit.</p>

<h2><strong>'Rail roko' on March 10&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Protesting farmers have scheduled a four-hour nationwide 'rail roko' on March 10.&nbsp;"We may have to fight today, tomorrow, but we will continue to fight for our rights," farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-defence-min-rajnath-singh-lauds-indian-navy-says-want-to-create-an-environment-of-peace-697122">India Defence Min Rajnath Singh lauds Indian Navy, says 'Want to create an environment of peace'</a></strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, reports said that the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called for a Mahapanchayat in the capital city of Delhi on March 14.&nbsp;Despite multiple rounds of dialogue, the impasse between farmers and the government continues.</p>

<p>Earlier, the farmers rejected the government's offer to purchase five crops -&nbsp;moong dal, urad dal, cotton, tur dal, and maize at MSP for five years. Protesting farmers are resolute in their demands.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian farmers are set to resume their 'Dilli Chalo' march on Wednesday (Mar 6) in a bid to amplify their demands over various issues, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance, and relief from debt burden, among others.

Indian farmers are set to resume their 'Dilli Chalo' march on Wednesday (Mar 6) in a bid to amplify their demands over various issues, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) assurance, and relief from debt burden, among others. Notably, since February 13, farmers have entrenched themselves at various points along Delhi borders with their tractors. The farmers are demanding a law guaranteeing MSP as well as the withdrawal of prior police charges against protesters during the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, a tragic incident that occurred on October 3, 2021, in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh where a convoy of vehicles clashed with another group resulting in the death of eight people, including four farmers. The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) issued a nationwide call to converge on Delhi this Wednesday (Mar 6) to continue their protest against the central government. Also Read | India Prime Minister Modi inaugurates 17-kilometre extension of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor In anticipation, Delhi Police have escalated monitoring at the Tikri, Singhu, and Ghazipur borders in a bid to avoid any untoward incident in light of the demonstrations. "We have stepped up security at all three borders. However, we are not shutting any border or route but vehicle checking will take place," a police officer reportedly said. Also Read | PM Modi inaugurates India's first underwater metro, other projects worth $1.85bn "It is the 23rd day of the protest that was launched by the KMM and SKM (non-political). Like we announced earlier, farmers from other states will start marching towards Delhi from today. They won't come on tractor-trolleys and that's why I don't think anyone would be able to reach (Delhi) today. The situation would be clear by March 10," farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said, reported PTI news agency. Despite encountering hurdles at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana during their initial 'Dilli Chalo' call, farmers remain steadfast in their pursuit. 'Rail roko' on March 10 Protesting farmers have scheduled a four-hour nationwide 'rail roko' on March 10. "We may have to fight today, tomorrow, but we will continue to fight for our rights," farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal said. Watch | India Defence Min Rajnath Singh lauds Indian Navy, says 'Want to create an environment of peace' × Meanwhile, reports said that the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has called for a Mahapanchayat in the capital city of Delhi on March 14. Despite multiple rounds of dialogue, the impasse between farmers and the government continues. Earlier, the farmers rejected the government's offer to purchase five crops - moong dal, urad dal, cotton, tur dal, and maize at MSP for five years. Protesting farmers are resolute in their demands. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Farmers resume 'Dilli Chalo' march, police boost surveillance on borders

Delhi Chalo 2.0: Farmers to resume agitation

Farmers now plan to march towards the National Capital resuming the 'Dilli Chalo' march after spending days at the Punjab and Haryana border following clashes that injured several farmers and policemen.

Farmers protest: After four rounds of 'inconclusive' talks, protests to intensify

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