In an address to the nation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that the government has decided to repeal the three farm laws. Several farmers had been protesting against these laws for a long time. The leader also appealed these farmers to return home.

All three farm laws repealed, PM Modi apologizes to farmers, urges them to go home

As farmers rush to plant rabi winter crops as chill sets in northern India, several states across the country are reporting a massive shortage of fertiliser, threatening to disrupt their planting season.

Several states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh are facing a severe shortage of fertilizers mainly of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP), according to media reports.

DAP is a preferred fertiliser containing nitrogen and phosphorus that are the primary nutrients for crops. It is used before the sowing season arrives.

The government provides subsidies for farmers by compensating the companies that sell fertilisers at market rates.

Farmers primarily plant mustard, potato, garlic, chickpea, red lentil, green peas, cumin and coriander during October, when the winter starts to set in northern India. The peak demand for fertilisers comes during the November-December period, when rabi crops wheat and onion are sown.

Several videos have emerged on social media showing hundreds of farmers standing in long queues, with some of them claiming they had been waiting for hours for a sack of fertilizer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-appeals-to-farmers-not-to-hoard-fertilisers-425948">Government appeals to farmers not to hoard fertilisers</a>

Meanwhile, the government has denied any shortage of fertiliser.

Terming the reports of a fertiliser shortage as “rumours”, Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya appealed to farmers not to “hoard” fertilisers.

Last week Punjab’s Agriculture Minister Randeep Singh Nabha had met Mandaviya and raised the issue of shortage of fertilisers in the state.

Mandaviya assured to supply 10 rakes of DAP, five rakes of NPK (complex fertiliser) and two rakes of single super phosphate to the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sends-in-100-tonne-fertiliser-to-sri-lanka-amid-colombos-row-with-china-over-contamination-427106">India sends in 100 tonne fertiliser to Sri Lanka amid Colombo's row with China over contamination</a>

The total requirement of DAP for rabi crops in Punjab is 5.50 lakh tonnes. Out of this, 4.80 lakh tonnes is required during October and November for timely sowing of the wheat crop.

Earlier, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar blamed the shortage of DAP fertiliser on fluctuations in international prices.&nbsp;

“There is a slight shortage of DAP fertiliser because we import it and the prices have also gone up. When DAP prices had increased in the last season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a decision to provide it at a subsidised rate of Rs 1,200 per bag to reduce the burden on farmers. Now, prices have increased globally and it has been decided that the fertiliser would be provided at a subsidised rate of Rs 1,650 per bag,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As farmers rush to plant rabi winter crops as chill sets in northern India, several states across the country are reporting a massive shortage of fertiliser, threatening to disrupt their planting season.

As farmers rush to plant rabi winter crops as chill sets in northern India, several states across the country are reporting a massive shortage of fertiliser, threatening to disrupt their planting season. Several states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh are facing a severe shortage of fertilizers mainly of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP), according to media reports. DAP is a preferred fertiliser containing nitrogen and phosphorus that are the primary nutrients for crops. It is used before the sowing season arrives. The government provides subsidies for farmers by compensating the companies that sell fertilisers at market rates. Farmers primarily plant mustard, potato, garlic, chickpea, red lentil, green peas, cumin and coriander during October, when the winter starts to set in northern India. The peak demand for fertilisers comes during the November-December period, when rabi crops wheat and onion are sown. Several videos have emerged on social media showing hundreds of farmers standing in long queues, with some of them claiming they had been waiting for hours for a sack of fertilizer. Also read | Government appeals to farmers not to hoard fertilisers Meanwhile, the government has denied any shortage of fertiliser. Terming the reports of a fertiliser shortage as “rumours”, Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya appealed to farmers not to “hoard” fertilisers. Last week Punjab’s Agriculture Minister Randeep Singh Nabha had met Mandaviya and raised the issue of shortage of fertilisers in the state. Mandaviya assured to supply 10 rakes of DAP, five rakes of NPK (complex fertiliser) and two rakes of single super phosphate to the state. Also read | India sends in 100 tonne fertiliser to Sri Lanka amid Colombo's row with China over contamination The total requirement of DAP for rabi crops in Punjab is 5.50 lakh tonnes. Out of this, 4.80 lakh tonnes is required during October and November for timely sowing of the wheat crop. Earlier, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar blamed the shortage of DAP fertiliser on fluctuations in international prices. “There is a slight shortage of DAP fertiliser because we import it and the prices have also gone up. When DAP prices had increased in the last season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a decision to provide it at a subsidised rate of Rs 1,200 per bag to reduce the burden on farmers. Now, prices have increased globally and it has been decided that the fertiliser would be provided at a subsidised rate of Rs 1,650 per bag,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Shortage of fertiliser poses fresh problems for Indian farmers ahead of sowing season

Farmers in Bangladesh are adjusting to unpredictable conditions caused by global warming by using floating seedbeds and developing salt-resistant rice. For more on this, watch South Asia Diary with Mariam Wardak.

South Asia Diary | Farmers in Bangladesh adjust to unpredictable conditions

The cash-strapped Taliban regime in Afghanistan is making the country's distressed farmers pay the so-called charity or 'zakat' taxes on their land and harvests,

War, drought, and COVID-19 have devastated farmers across Afghanistan. Now, these farmers who have lost money trying to grow crops over the past year say that the Taliban is dealing them another crippling blow, the report said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-leader-sheikh-haibatullah-akhundzada-makes-first-ever-public-appearance-in-kandahar-425362">Taliban's leader Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada makes first-ever public appearance in Kandahar</a>

The charity taxes are being collected despite the fact that farmers themselves are among the 14 million Afghans that the World Food Program says are already facing acute hunger.

Farmers say they have to pay a 2.5 per cent tax on the value that Taliban tax collectors estimated his property is worth.

The Taliban justifies its charity taxes as one of the five pillars of Islam that are considered obligations for all Muslims.

Zakat'&nbsp;differs from the voluntary act of giving charitable gifts out of kindness or generosity, the report said.

It is meant to be compulsory for those who earn incomes above a certain amount, and it is based on a person's income as well as the value of their possessions.

Recipients of 'zakat'&nbsp;are meant to be the poor and needy, struggling converts to Islam, people who are enslaved or in debt, stranded travellers, and soldiers who fight to protect the Muslim community.

Those who collect 'zakat'&nbsp;are also compensated for the work they do.

Critics of the tax include Islamic scholars and aid workers who note that the practice has failed to alleviate poverty in the Muslim world, the report added. They argue that the funds often are wasted and mismanaged.

Residents of Ghor province refute the Ministry's claim that the Taliban is not delivering tax payment notifications, the report added.

Taliban's tax collection process began when local militants posted so-called night letters at local mosques and on the walls of residential compounds, the report added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/failure-to-recognise-government-can-create-problems-for-the-world-taliban-warn-us-425441">Failure to recognise government can create problems for the world, Taliban warn US</a>

Farmers in the central Afghan province also say that Taliban gunmen have stormed their homes at night to demand that they pay tithes and charity taxes.

Those without money to make the payments say the Taliban has seized their livestock instead -- making their families even more dependent on humanitarian aid in the months ahead, the report added.

In Kabul, the Taliban-led government's Agriculture Ministry says it is collecting charity taxes from farmers, ranchers, and people with small garden plots in order to bolster revenues and increase the "self-sufficiency" of the country.

The cash-strapped Taliban regime in Afghanistan is making the country's distressed farmers pay the so-called charity or 'zakat' taxes on their land and harvests, War, drought, and COVID-19 have devastated farmers across Afghanistan.

The cash-strapped Taliban regime in Afghanistan is making the country's distressed farmers pay the so-called charity or 'zakat' taxes on their land and harvests, War, drought, and COVID-19 have devastated farmers across Afghanistan. Now, these farmers who have lost money trying to grow crops over the past year say that the Taliban is dealing them another crippling blow, the report said. Also Read | Taliban's leader Sheikh Haibatullah Akhundzada makes first-ever public appearance in Kandahar The charity taxes are being collected despite the fact that farmers themselves are among the 14 million Afghans that the World Food Program says are already facing acute hunger. Farmers say they have to pay a 2.5 per cent tax on the value that Taliban tax collectors estimated his property is worth. The Taliban justifies its charity taxes as one of the five pillars of Islam that are considered obligations for all Muslims. Zakat' differs from the voluntary act of giving charitable gifts out of kindness or generosity, the report said. It is meant to be compulsory for those who earn incomes above a certain amount, and it is based on a person's income as well as the value of their possessions. Recipients of 'zakat' are meant to be the poor and needy, struggling converts to Islam, people who are enslaved or in debt, stranded travellers, and soldiers who fight to protect the Muslim community. Those who collect 'zakat' are also compensated for the work they do. Critics of the tax include Islamic scholars and aid workers who note that the practice has failed to alleviate poverty in the Muslim world, the report added. They argue that the funds often are wasted and mismanaged. Residents of Ghor province refute the Ministry's claim that the Taliban is not delivering tax payment notifications, the report added. Taliban's tax collection process began when local militants posted so-called night letters at local mosques and on the walls of residential compounds, the report added. Also Read | Failure to recognise government can create problems for the world, Taliban warn US Farmers in the central Afghan province also say that Taliban gunmen have stormed their homes at night to demand that they pay tithes and charity taxes. Those without money to make the payments say the Taliban has seized their livestock instead -- making their families even more dependent on humanitarian aid in the months ahead, the report added. In Kabul, the Taliban-led government's Agriculture Ministry says it is collecting charity taxes from farmers, ranchers, and people with small garden plots in order to bolster revenues and increase the "self-sufficiency" of the country.

Taliban forcing distressed Afghan farmers to pay 'zakat' tax

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested&nbsp;a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case.&nbsp;

Accused Sarvjit Singh was taken into custody after he surrendered on Friday night for his alleged role in the lynching, said police. He was produced at a local court on Saturday and sent to seven days’ police custody.&nbsp;

According to reports, Singh had come to Singhu border when the contingent of Nihang Sikhs had arrived there in the first week of December last year. At the border, he was the leader of a unit that tended to the horses.&nbsp;

In several videos that came to the fore on Friday night, Singh took responsibility for killing Lakhbir Singh, a lower caste Dalit Sikh from a village in Punjab, claiming that he had desecrated the Sikh holy book.&nbsp;

Police had registered an FIR against unknown persons on Friday on charges of murder and common intention. &nbsp;

Police had said that they had received information around 5 am on Friday that Nihangs had hanged and tied a person to a barricade and his hand was chopped off. When the police reached the spot, the victim had died. &nbsp;

The Nihang Sikhs and protesters had initially refused to hand over the body to the police.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/singhu-border-killing-unfortunate-would-not-affect-protest-says-indias-farmer-leader-rakesh-tikait-421227">Singhu border killing 'unfortunate', would not affect protest, says India's farmer leader Rakesh Tikait</a>

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of farmers’ unions leading the protest, has condemned, and distanced itself from the murder. “Want to make it clear both sides —the Nihang group (and) the deceased —have no relation with the Kisan Morcha,” it said. &nbsp;

The group said it abhorred religious sacrilege but nobody could take the law into their hands. The guilty must be punished, the farmers body said, and offered the police its support.&nbsp;

The latest killing comes days after a car linked to India’s junior home minister Ajay Mishra ran over farmers protesting controversial farm laws in Lakhimpur Khiri in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-seeks-early-hearing-of-pil-in-indias-supreme-court-on-removing-protesting-farmers-from-delhi-borders-421212">Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders</a>

Eight people died in the October 3 incident in which four of them were farmers. Infuriated, the farmers then allegedly lynched some people in the vehicle. The other dead included two BJP workers and their driver.&nbsp;

Farmers alleged that the vehicle was being driven by minister Ajay Mishra's son Ashish Mishra. The minister has denied the charge, maintaining that his son was not there when the incident happened.&nbsp;

After videos circulated on social media showed the car ramming into the protesters from behind, Ashish Mishra was arrested late on Saturday night.&nbsp;

This is not the first incident where the farmers' protest turned violent. Earlier this year on January 26—the day when India marks its Republic Day— farmers rally across Delhi turned violent&nbsp;when a group of protestors deviated from the parade to storm the&nbsp;Red Fort.

Tens of thousands of the farmers protesting agricultural reforms drove a convoy of tractors, earlier than the allotted time, to start the tractor rally into New Delhi. The farmers drove on prohibited routes in long lines of tractors, riding horses or marching on foot. However, a section of the tractor rally turned violent as the protesting farmers clashed with the police. Some of the protesters deviated from their pre-sanctioned routes permitted by Delhi Police and breached the barricades.

More than 300 police personnel were injured in the violence by protesters, who used batons and sharp weapons.

<h2>Who are Nihangs?</h2>

Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors, characterised by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits. According to experts, Nihangs originated from the Sanskrit word ‘nihshank’ which means without fear, unblemished, pure, carefree and indifferent to worldly gains and comfort.” &nbsp;

Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh Panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15) when Mughal governors were killing Sikhs and during the onslaught of Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Durrani (1748-65).&nbsp;

The 19th-century Indian historian Rattan Singh Bhangu describes Nihangs as “unaffected by pain or comfort”, “given to meditation, penance and charity” and “complete warriors”.&nbsp;

Last year, a group of&nbsp;Nihangs had chopped off the hand of a policeman in Patiala with a sword after he asked them to show 'movement passes' during the Covid lockdown.&nbsp;

<h2>Difference between Nihangs and other Sikh warriors?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Long before, the Khalsa Sikhs were divided into two groups - One who took on the blue attire that Guru Gobind Singh used to wear at war and others decided not to follow any restrictions of colour or pattern. Though they don't follow a similar dress code, both groups follow the profession of soldiery and are brave.&nbsp;

Nihangs hoist a blue Nishan Sahib (flag) on their shrines instead of a saffron one and use slogans like ‘chhardi kala’ which means forever in high spirits.&nbsp;

<h2>A year since farm protest began&nbsp;</h2>

September 17 marked one year of enforcement of the three contentious agriculture laws.&nbsp;

The three laws are the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020; and Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. &nbsp;

The farmers fear the laws will lead to the abolishment of the minimum support price (MSP)— guaranteed assured prices on the select crops—and leave them at the mercy of big corporates.&nbsp;

The protests began on November 25 last year, when thousands of farmers — mainly from Punjab and Haryana — marched towards the national capital demanding a complete repeal of the legislations, as part of a “Dilli Chalo” campaign.&nbsp;

Several rounds of talks between farmer unions and the government have yielded no results.&nbsp;

The government says the laws will increase farmers' income, but unions see them as unfair and exploitative.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called the reforms a "watershed moment" for Indian agriculture. But farmer groups said contrary to promises that the laws will help improve farm incomes and increase productivity, they will in fact expose them to the vagaries of the free market and make them poorer.&nbsp;

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case.

A day after a 35-year-old man was found brutally lynched with his hands and legs chopped off at the farmers’ protest site at Singhu on India’s northern Delhi-Haryana border, the police on Saturday said they have arrested a member of the warrior Sikh order ‘Nihang’ in the case. Accused Sarvjit Singh was taken into custody after he surrendered on Friday night for his alleged role in the lynching, said police. He was produced at a local court on Saturday and sent to seven days’ police custody. According to reports, Singh had come to Singhu border when the contingent of Nihang Sikhs had arrived there in the first week of December last year. At the border, he was the leader of a unit that tended to the horses. In several videos that came to the fore on Friday night, Singh took responsibility for killing Lakhbir Singh, a lower caste Dalit Sikh from a village in Punjab, claiming that he had desecrated the Sikh holy book. Police had registered an FIR against unknown persons on Friday on charges of murder and common intention. Police had said that they had received information around 5 am on Friday that Nihangs had hanged and tied a person to a barricade and his hand was chopped off. When the police reached the spot, the victim had died. The Nihang Sikhs and protesters had initially refused to hand over the body to the police. Also read | Singhu border killing 'unfortunate', would not affect protest, says India's farmer leader Rakesh Tikait The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of farmers’ unions leading the protest, has condemned, and distanced itself from the murder. “Want to make it clear both sides —the Nihang group (and) the deceased —have no relation with the Kisan Morcha,” it said. The group said it abhorred religious sacrilege but nobody could take the law into their hands. The guilty must be punished, the farmers body said, and offered the police its support. The latest killing comes days after a car linked to India’s junior home minister Ajay Mishra ran over farmers protesting controversial farm laws in Lakhimpur Khiri in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state. Also read | Plea seeks early hearing of PIL in India's Supreme Court on removing protesting farmers from Delhi borders Eight people died in the October 3 incident in which four of them were farmers. Infuriated, the farmers then allegedly lynched some people in the vehicle. The other dead included two BJP workers and their driver. Farmers alleged that the vehicle was being driven by minister Ajay Mishra's son Ashish Mishra. The minister has denied the charge, maintaining that his son was not there when the incident happened. After videos circulated on social media showed the car ramming into the protesters from behind, Ashish Mishra was arrested late on Saturday night. This is not the first incident where the farmers' protest turned violent. Earlier this year on January 26—the day when India marks its Republic Day— farmers rally across Delhi turned violent when a group of protestors deviated from the parade to storm the Red Fort. Tens of thousands of the farmers protesting agricultural reforms drove a convoy of tractors, earlier than the allotted time, to start the tractor rally into New Delhi. The farmers drove on prohibited routes in long lines of tractors, riding horses or marching on foot. However, a section of the tractor rally turned violent as the protesting farmers clashed with the police. Some of the protesters deviated from their pre-sanctioned routes permitted by Delhi Police and breached the barricades. More than 300 police personnel were injured in the violence by protesters, who used batons and sharp weapons. Who are Nihangs? Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors, characterised by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits. According to experts, Nihangs originated from the Sanskrit word ‘nihshank’ which means without fear, unblemished, pure, carefree and indifferent to worldly gains and comfort.” Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh Panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15) when Mughal governors were killing Sikhs and during the onslaught of Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Durrani (1748-65). The 19th-century Indian historian Rattan Singh Bhangu describes Nihangs as “unaffected by pain or comfort”, “given to meditation, penance and charity” and “complete warriors”. Last year, a group of Nihangs had chopped off the hand of a policeman in Patiala with a sword after he asked them to show 'movement passes' during the Covid lockdown. Difference between Nihangs and other Sikh warriors? Long before, the Khalsa Sikhs were divided into two groups - One who took on the blue attire that Guru Gobind Singh used to wear at war and others decided not to follow any restrictions of colour or pattern. Though they don't follow a similar dress code, both groups follow the profession of soldiery and are brave. Nihangs hoist a blue Nishan Sahib (flag) on their shrines instead of a saffron one and use slogans like ‘chhardi kala’ which means forever in high spirits. A year since farm protest began September 17 marked one year of enforcement of the three contentious agriculture laws. The three laws are the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020; and Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. The farmers fear the laws will lead to the abolishment of the minimum support price (MSP)— guaranteed assured prices on the select crops—and leave them at the mercy of big corporates. The protests began on November 25 last year, when thousands of farmers — mainly from Punjab and Haryana — marched towards the national capital demanding a complete repeal of the legislations, as part of a “Dilli Chalo” campaign. Several rounds of talks between farmer unions and the government have yielded no results. The government says the laws will increase farmers' income, but unions see them as unfair and exploitative. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called the reforms a "watershed moment" for Indian agriculture. But farmer groups said contrary to promises that the laws will help improve farm incomes and increase productivity, they will in fact expose them to the vagaries of the free market and make them poorer.

Murder, killings, violence: A look at how these events shaped Indian farmers’ protest

A new survey has revealed that over a third of people in UK farming could be suffering from depression. There have been reports of high levels of anxiety, particularly in women.

Stress is being attributed to reasons like financial pressure, physical pain, the COVID-19 pandemic, regulations and bad weather.

The survey by the University of Exeter and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) came as pig farmers have been reporting distress at having to kill their animals due to a shortage of abattoir workers.

As a part of the survey, the researchers spoke to 15,000 people involved in farming in the UK. The survey was carried out before the shortage of abattoir workers became a major problem in the UK.&nbsp;

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It found that specialist pig farmers were reporting the highest number of stress factors and rates of depression across all areas of farming.

However, people in cereals and general cropping reported fewer causes of stress. About 70 per cent were not experiencing depression.

The rise in extreme weather is a cause of major concern as 44 per cent of people are calling it a matter of significant worry.

Isolation and long hours have also contributed in poor well-being. Younger people have reported higher levels of loneliness than across the general population.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-is-in-the-bin-british-artist-banksys-half-shredded-picture-sells-for-record-25-million-420854">Also read |&nbsp;'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million</a>

Stephanie Berkeley from the Farm Safety Foundation was quoted by the BBC as saying, "Mental health in agriculture is the elephant in the room. No-one really wants to talk about loneliness, anxiety or suicide but it's there. This report has emphasised the need for the whole farming community to tackle the issue and encourage farmers to take notice, open up and talk to each other."

The findings have revealed that taking time off for a break or leisure is not an option for many farmers. Nearly one-third of respondents said that they hardly ever get time to leave the farm.

A new survey has revealed that over a third of people in UK farming could be suffering from depression. There have been reports of high levels of anxiety, particularly in women.

A new survey has revealed that over a third of people in UK farming could be suffering from depression. There have been reports of high levels of anxiety, particularly in women. Stress is being attributed to reasons like financial pressure, physical pain, the COVID-19 pandemic, regulations and bad weather. The survey by the University of Exeter and the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) came as pig farmers have been reporting distress at having to kill their animals due to a shortage of abattoir workers. As a part of the survey, the researchers spoke to 15,000 people involved in farming in the UK. The survey was carried out before the shortage of abattoir workers became a major problem in the UK. Also read | NASA's Lucy mission to begin voyage to Trojan asteroids It found that specialist pig farmers were reporting the highest number of stress factors and rates of depression across all areas of farming. However, people in cereals and general cropping reported fewer causes of stress. About 70 per cent were not experiencing depression. The rise in extreme weather is a cause of major concern as 44 per cent of people are calling it a matter of significant worry. Isolation and long hours have also contributed in poor well-being. Younger people have reported higher levels of loneliness than across the general population. Also read | 'Love is in the Bin:' British artist Banksy's half-shredded picture sells for record $25 million Stephanie Berkeley from the Farm Safety Foundation was quoted by the BBC as saying, "Mental health in agriculture is the elephant in the room. No-one really wants to talk about loneliness, anxiety or suicide but it's there. This report has emphasised the need for the whole farming community to tackle the issue and encourage farmers to take notice, open up and talk to each other." The findings have revealed that taking time off for a break or leisure is not an option for many farmers. Nearly one-third of respondents said that they hardly ever get time to leave the farm.

UK: One third of farmers could be depressed, reveals survey

Many of Sri Lanka’s farmers, particularly those involved in paddy cultivation are eagerly preparing their land for the upcoming “maha” season to start sowing their harvest. But this harvest season unlike others is mired with much doubt and anxieties. This would be the first, in which farmers will be made to use organic fertilizer instead of the age-old and well-accustomed chemical fertilizer.

Sri Lankan farmers prepare for harvest season

Many of Sri Lanka's farmers, particularly those involved in paddy cultivation are eagerly preparing their land for the upcoming season to start sowing their harvest. But this harvest season unlike others is mired with much doubt and anxieties as this would be the first, in which farmers will be made to use organic fertilizer instead of the age-old and well-accustomed chemical fertilizer. Our Sri Lanka correspondent Dasuni Athauda has the report.

Sri Lanka's farmers eagerly prepare their land for sowing their harvest

A new app launched in Kenya means farmers can hire tractors easily when needed. "Hello Tractor" connects farmers who cannot afford their own machinery to tractor owners via a mobile phone app. The device allows farmers to book and share tractors for as long as they need them - helping to speed up and increase production.

Hello Tractor the latest app to connect farmers to tractor owners in Africa

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced.

For 10 months, tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on major highways around the capital, New Delhi, to oppose the laws in the longest-running growers` protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.

"Thousands of farmers have spread out to different districts to ensure a complete nationwide strike aimed at reminding the government to repeal the laws introduced to favour large private corporations," Rakesh Tikait, a prominent farmers` leader, told Reuters.

In Noida, a New Delhi satellite town, farmers confronted police and pushed past them to break through barricades. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or arrests.

In Gurgaon - another satellite town near the capital`s main airport - farmers thronged onto a road and blocked traffic, while protesters stormed into a railway station in the northern outskirts of New Delhi, a Reuters witness said.

Nearly a dozen opposition parties have supported the farmers` protest to step up pressure on Modi’s administration to repeal the laws..

The legislation, introduced in September last year, deregulates the agriculture sector and allows farmers to sell produce to buyers beyond government-regulated wholesale markets, where growers are assured of a minimum price.

Small farmers say the changes make them vulnerable to competition from big business, and that they could eventually lose price supports for staples such as wheat and rice.

The government says the reforms mean new opportunities and better prices for farmers.

Farming sustains almost half of India`s more than 1.3 billion people and accounts for about 15% of the $2.7 trillion economy.

Farmer union leaders say their protests did not disrupt emergency services.

The protests have been generally peaceful but police and farmers clashed in New Delhi in January during a tractor procession and one protester was killed and more than 80 police were injured.

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced.

Indian farmers opposed to reforms they say threaten their livelihoods renewed their push against the changes with nationwide protests on Monday, a year after laws on the liberalisation of the sector were introduced. For 10 months, tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on major highways around the capital, New Delhi, to oppose the laws in the longest-running growers` protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. "Thousands of farmers have spread out to different districts to ensure a complete nationwide strike aimed at reminding the government to repeal the laws introduced to favour large private corporations," Rakesh Tikait, a prominent farmers` leader, told Reuters. In Noida, a New Delhi satellite town, farmers confronted police and pushed past them to break through barricades. There were no immediate reports of any injuries or arrests. In Gurgaon - another satellite town near the capital`s main airport - farmers thronged onto a road and blocked traffic, while protesters stormed into a railway station in the northern outskirts of New Delhi, a Reuters witness said. Nearly a dozen opposition parties have supported the farmers` protest to step up pressure on Modi’s administration to repeal the laws.. The legislation, introduced in September last year, deregulates the agriculture sector and allows farmers to sell produce to buyers beyond government-regulated wholesale markets, where growers are assured of a minimum price. Small farmers say the changes make them vulnerable to competition from big business, and that they could eventually lose price supports for staples such as wheat and rice. The government says the reforms mean new opportunities and better prices for farmers. Farming sustains almost half of India`s more than 1.3 billion people and accounts for about 15% of the $2.7 trillion economy. Farmer union leaders say their protests did not disrupt emergency services. The protests have been generally peaceful but police and farmers clashed in New Delhi in January during a tractor procession and one protester was killed and more than 80 police were injured.

Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms

Amazon.com Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. are among technology giants which are lining up to utilise data from India’s farmers in an ambitious government-led productivity drive. It is aimed at transforming an outmoded agricultural industry.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, which is seeking to ensure food security in the world’s second-most populous nation, has signed preliminary agreements with the three US titans and a slew of local businesses.&nbsp;

Modi is betting the private sector can help farmers boost yields with apps and tools built from information such as crop output, soil quality and landholdings.

As per the government, io Platforms Ltd, which is controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Ltd., and tobacco giant ITC Ltd are among local powerhouses that have signed up for the programme.

With the project, the Modi government seeks to usher in long-due reforms to makeover a farm sector that employs almost half of the nation’s 1.3 billion people and contributes about a fifth of Asia’s third-biggest economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-inaugurates-new-defence-offices-slams-central-vista-critics-413481">Also read |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi inaugurates new defence offices, slams Central Vista critics</a>

Ankur Pahwa, a partner at consultancy EY India, was quoted by Bloomberg as saying, "This is a high impact industry and private players are sensing the opportunity and want to be a large part of it".

He further added, "India has a very high amount of food wastage because of lack of technology and infrastructure. So there’s a huge upside to the program.”

The idea is to seed all the information such as crop pattern, soil health, insurance, credit, and weather patterns into a single database and then analyse it through AI and data analytics.&nbsp;

After that, the goal is to develop personalised services for a sector replete with challenges such as peaking yields, water stress, degrading soil and lack of infrastructure including temperature-controlled warehouses and refrigerated trucks.

As of now, the government has seeded publicly available data for more than 50 million farmers of the 120 million identified land-holding growers. Some of the local companies that have signed up include Star Agribazaar Technology, ESRI India

Technologies, yoga guru Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali Organic Research Institute and Ninjacart. However, the success rate is far from guaranteed.&nbsp;

The plan to rope in big corporations is already drawing criticisms from critics.&nbsp;

As per the critics, the move comes as another attempt by the government to give the private sector a greater sway.

Amazon.com Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. are among technology giants which are lining up to utilise data from India’s farmers in an ambitious government-led productivity drive.

Amazon.com Inc., Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. are among technology giants which are lining up to utilise data from India’s farmers in an ambitious government-led productivity drive. It is aimed at transforming an outmoded agricultural industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, which is seeking to ensure food security in the world’s second-most populous nation, has signed preliminary agreements with the three US titans and a slew of local businesses. Modi is betting the private sector can help farmers boost yields with apps and tools built from information such as crop output, soil quality and landholdings. As per the government, io Platforms Ltd, which is controlled by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries Ltd., and tobacco giant ITC Ltd are among local powerhouses that have signed up for the programme. With the project, the Modi government seeks to usher in long-due reforms to makeover a farm sector that employs almost half of the nation’s 1.3 billion people and contributes about a fifth of Asia’s third-biggest economy. Also read | Indian PM Modi inaugurates new defence offices, slams Central Vista critics Ankur Pahwa, a partner at consultancy EY India, was quoted by Bloomberg as saying, "This is a high impact industry and private players are sensing the opportunity and want to be a large part of it". He further added, "India has a very high amount of food wastage because of lack of technology and infrastructure. So there’s a huge upside to the program.” The idea is to seed all the information such as crop pattern, soil health, insurance, credit, and weather patterns into a single database and then analyse it through AI and data analytics. After that, the goal is to develop personalised services for a sector replete with challenges such as peaking yields, water stress, degrading soil and lack of infrastructure including temperature-controlled warehouses and refrigerated trucks. As of now, the government has seeded publicly available data for more than 50 million farmers of the 120 million identified land-holding growers. Some of the local companies that have signed up include Star Agribazaar Technology, ESRI India Technologies, yoga guru Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali Organic Research Institute and Ninjacart. However, the success rate is far from guaranteed. The plan to rope in big corporations is already drawing criticisms from critics. As per the critics, the move comes as another attempt by the government to give the private sector a greater sway.

Amazon, Microsoft, Cisco among tech giants to utilise data from India’s farmers

There is more to tomatoes than it meets the eye. Spanish people seem to be the ones to realise it truly though. &nbsp;

Along with the annual Tomatina festival, the country also celebrates the unusual 'ugliest tomato' competition every year in northern Tudela.

Watch:&nbsp;'Sendoff'- Here's the world's first funeral app

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The love for the red and wrinkled is old in this part of the world. The competition fills farmers with joy. The winner Spanish family also got an Iberian ham as the prize.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the 14th edition of the competition, dozens of ugly tomatoes competed for the award, which was decided by a popular jury. &nbsp;

Known as "Ugly tomato of Tudela", the type of tomato is an old tomato of the Marmande variety. It is grown mainly in the Navarre region.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pace-to-reach-space-shoots-up-as-spacex-set-to-launch-billionaire-into-orbit-412597" hreflang="en">Pace to reach space shoots up as SpaceX set to launch billionaire into orbit</a>&nbsp;

Rather than round and smooth, some of this variety of tomato ends up twisted. &nbsp;

Some say they get the ugly tomatoes by luck, while others blame the failed pollination by bees for the result. &nbsp;

The competition also includes a tasting of quality and flavour of 'normal' tomatoes.&nbsp;

There is more to tomatoes than it meets the eye. Spanish people seem to be the ones to realise it truly though. Along with the annual Tomatina festival, the country also celebrates the unusual 'ugliest tomato' competition every year in northern Tudela.

There is more to tomatoes than it meets the eye. Spanish people seem to be the ones to realise it truly though. Along with the annual Tomatina festival, the country also celebrates the unusual 'ugliest tomato' competition every year in northern Tudela. Watch: 'Sendoff'- Here's the world's first funeral app × The love for the red and wrinkled is old in this part of the world. The competition fills farmers with joy. The winner Spanish family also got an Iberian ham as the prize. In the 14th edition of the competition, dozens of ugly tomatoes competed for the award, which was decided by a popular jury. Known as "Ugly tomato of Tudela", the type of tomato is an old tomato of the Marmande variety. It is grown mainly in the Navarre region. Also Read: Pace to reach space shoots up as SpaceX set to launch billionaire into orbit Rather than round and smooth, some of this variety of tomato ends up twisted. Some say they get the ugly tomatoes by luck, while others blame the failed pollination by bees for the result. The competition also includes a tasting of quality and flavour of 'normal' tomatoes.

May 'ugliest tomato' win: Spain's unusual competition fills farmers with joy  

Amid the crisis in Afghanistan, farmers of the country are living under the fear of no export of their crops. Almost one-third of Afghanistan's GDP comes from agriculture. Farmers are of the hope that the exporters will buy their harvest.

Farmers fear no export of their crops in Afghanistan

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought.&nbsp;

COVID-19 has further affected the agricultural workers in the country, which is now controlled by the Taliban.

The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization said that the farmers worst affected by a drought in the country are among some 14 million people, or one in three Afghans, who are "acutely food insecure and need urgent humanitarian assistance".

"Urgent agricultural support now is key to counter the impact of the drought and a worsening situation in Afghanistan's vast rural areas in the weeks and months ahead," FAO director Qu Dongyu said in a statement.&nbsp;

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"If we fail to assist the people most affected by the acute drought, large numbers will be forced to abandon their farms and be displaced in certain areas," Qu added.&nbsp;

"This threatens to further deepen food insecurity and poses yet another threat to the stability of Afghanistan."

The organisation said it was facing a funding shortfall of $18 million to support its drought response plan in Afghanistan. It is hoping to help 250,000 families, or around 1.5 million people, for the upcoming winter wheat season.&nbsp;

But the funding shortfall means only 110,000 families can be supported.&nbsp;

The appeal comes as humanitarian organisations fear the Taliban's arrival could hamper access for aid deliveries and personnel.

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought.

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal on Saturday for aid for some seven million Afghan farmers in the war-ravaged nation facing the threat of severe drought. COVID-19 has further affected the agricultural workers in the country, which is now controlled by the Taliban. The UN's Food and Agricultural Organization said that the farmers worst affected by a drought in the country are among some 14 million people, or one in three Afghans, who are "acutely food insecure and need urgent humanitarian assistance". "Urgent agricultural support now is key to counter the impact of the drought and a worsening situation in Afghanistan's vast rural areas in the weeks and months ahead," FAO director Qu Dongyu said in a statement. Also read | US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately' "If we fail to assist the people most affected by the acute drought, large numbers will be forced to abandon their farms and be displaced in certain areas," Qu added. "This threatens to further deepen food insecurity and poses yet another threat to the stability of Afghanistan." The organisation said it was facing a funding shortfall of $18 million to support its drought response plan in Afghanistan. It is hoping to help 250,000 families, or around 1.5 million people, for the upcoming winter wheat season. But the funding shortfall means only 110,000 families can be supported. The appeal comes as humanitarian organisations fear the Taliban's arrival could hamper access for aid deliveries and personnel.

UN issues urgent appeal to help drought-hit Afghan farmers

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation&nbsp;of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses.

Demonstrations that took place nationwide were called "Howl of A Protest". The protests saw farmers on busy motorways with their tractors, pick up trucks and other farm vehicles. This caused traffic jams in major cities including Auckland.

Many residents showed solidarity with the farmers by holding placards as the vehicles drove past on the 
streets.

Protesters have asked the government to relax new regulations on managing waterways and ease some of the Covid-19 border controls to allow more seasonal overseas workers into the country as the industry faces acute labor shortages.

They are also demanding the scrapping of what has been dubbed the "Ute tax" - a new government package subsidizing cleaner electric cars while increasing fees on large petrol and diesel vehicles widely used by farmers and tradespeople.

(With inputs from agencies)

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses.

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses. Demonstrations that took place nationwide were called "Howl of A Protest". The protests saw farmers on busy motorways with their tractors, pick up trucks and other farm vehicles. This caused traffic jams in major cities including Auckland. Many residents showed solidarity with the farmers by holding placards as the vehicles drove past on the streets. Protesters have asked the government to relax new regulations on managing waterways and ease some of the Covid-19 border controls to allow more seasonal overseas workers into the country as the industry faces acute labor shortages. They are also demanding the scrapping of what has been dubbed the "Ute tax" - a new government package subsidizing cleaner electric cars while increasing fees on large petrol and diesel vehicles widely used by farmers and tradespeople. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand farmers protest in tractors, oppose government regulations

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed.&nbsp;

The ban, ordered by the kingdom's Interior Ministry and due to take effect on Sunday, is a major blow to the Lebanese economy, already reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis.&nbsp;

It came after Saudi Arabia announced on Friday, it has seized over 5 million pills of an amphetamine drug known as Captagon, hidden in a shipment of pomegranate coming from Lebanon. The official Saudi Press Agency said four Saudis and one displaced it did not identify were arrested.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Lebanon's President Michel Aoun called for a meeting next week with Cabinet members, security officials, farmers and exporters to discuss the Saudi decision and its implications.&nbsp;

Lebanon's Foreign Ministry on Friday said smuggling of drugs is harmful to the country's reputation and economy. It called on Lebanese customs duty authorities to increase checks and inspections of shipments leaving the small Mediterranean country.&nbsp;

But in a statement on Sunday, Lebanon's Farmers Union called on the kingdom to repeal its decision. It said the mistake of one person or a criminal gang should not be the reason to punish the entire Lebanese people.&nbsp;

Agricultural exports are a major foreign currency earner for Lebanon. Arab countries are Lebanon's main export markets for agricultural products, accounting for nearly 80% of over $190 million of total exports in 2019, where Saudi Arabia had more than 20% of the share, followed by Qatar.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia's decision showed 'political maliciousness’, and contradicts the kingdom's claims that it protects Lebanon's interests, the statement added. The farmers union accused Saudi Arabia of participating in a policy to besiege Lebanon and change its alliance.&nbsp;

While Saudi Arabia has been a major Lebanon supporter, the kingdom has also been locked in a regional struggle with Iran, the main ally of the powerful Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Tension between the two regional powerhouses have often spilled into a deadlock in decision-making in Lebanese politics. Saudi Arabia is among Gulf countries that imposed sanctions on Hezbollah.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other officials denied the smuggling was done by Lebanese. The head of the farmers' union in eastern Lebanon's Bekaa valley said the pomegranate shipment was coming from Syria, passing transit through Lebanese port.&nbsp;

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed.

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed. The ban, ordered by the kingdom's Interior Ministry and due to take effect on Sunday, is a major blow to the Lebanese economy, already reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis. It came after Saudi Arabia announced on Friday, it has seized over 5 million pills of an amphetamine drug known as Captagon, hidden in a shipment of pomegranate coming from Lebanon. The official Saudi Press Agency said four Saudis and one displaced it did not identify were arrested. On Saturday, Lebanon's President Michel Aoun called for a meeting next week with Cabinet members, security officials, farmers and exporters to discuss the Saudi decision and its implications. Lebanon's Foreign Ministry on Friday said smuggling of drugs is harmful to the country's reputation and economy. It called on Lebanese customs duty authorities to increase checks and inspections of shipments leaving the small Mediterranean country. But in a statement on Sunday, Lebanon's Farmers Union called on the kingdom to repeal its decision. It said the mistake of one person or a criminal gang should not be the reason to punish the entire Lebanese people. Agricultural exports are a major foreign currency earner for Lebanon. Arab countries are Lebanon's main export markets for agricultural products, accounting for nearly 80% of over $190 million of total exports in 2019, where Saudi Arabia had more than 20% of the share, followed by Qatar. Saudi Arabia's decision showed 'political maliciousness’, and contradicts the kingdom's claims that it protects Lebanon's interests, the statement added. The farmers union accused Saudi Arabia of participating in a policy to besiege Lebanon and change its alliance. While Saudi Arabia has been a major Lebanon supporter, the kingdom has also been locked in a regional struggle with Iran, the main ally of the powerful Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Tension between the two regional powerhouses have often spilled into a deadlock in decision-making in Lebanese politics. Saudi Arabia is among Gulf countries that imposed sanctions on Hezbollah. Meanwhile, other officials denied the smuggling was done by Lebanese. The head of the farmers' union in eastern Lebanon's Bekaa valley said the pomegranate shipment was coming from Syria, passing transit through Lebanese port.

Lebanon farmers union calls on Saudi to repeal produce ban 

For weeks, farmers' unions have been protesting in and outside the nation’s capital, demanding the withdrawal of recently passed legislation they say, without evidence, was designed to benefit corporates.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-run-riot-in-delhi-on-republic-day-359493">Also read | Farmers run riot in Delhi on Republic Day</a> 
 
There have been multiple rounds of talks with the government but the stalemate continues.

A faction of farmers believe that these bills will severely impoverish them but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has a different point of view.

IMF's Chief Economist Gita Gopinath has said that India's recently-enacted agriculture laws have the potential to increase farmers' income.

"Indian agriculture is in need of reforms. There are multiple areas where the reforms are needed, including infrastructure," the Chief Economist of the Washington-based global financial institution said on Tuesday.

The three agri laws, enacted in September last year, have been projected by the Indian government as major reforms in the agriculture sector that will remove middlemen and allow farmers to sell their products anywhere in the country.

Gopinath, in response to a question on the new farm laws, said: "These particular farm laws were in the area of marketing. It was widening the market for farmers. Being able to sell to multiple outlets besides the Mandis without having to pay a tax. And this had the potential to raise, in our view, farmers' incomes."

"That said, every time reform is put in place, there are transition costs. One has to make sure and pay close attention that it's not harming vulnerable farmers, to make sure that the social safety net is provided. Clearly, there is a discussion right now and we'll see what comes out if it," she said.

Thousands of farmers in India, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at several Delhi border points since November 28 last year, demanding a repeal of the farm laws and a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops.

So far, 11 rounds of talks have taken place between the government and farmer leaders with both sides hardening their positions.

In the last round of talks, the government offered to suspend the laws for 1-1.5 years and form a joint committee to find solutions, in return for protesting farmers going back to their respective homes from Delhi borders.

However, farmer leaders said that they would settle for nothing less than a complete repeal of the laws, which they find pro-corporate, and a legal guarantee for the procurement of crops at government-fixed MSP.

The Samkyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of 41 farmer unions, is leading the protest against the three central farm laws at several border points of Delhi.

Tuesday's tractor parade in New Delhi, which was to highlight the demands of the farmer unions to repeal three new Agri laws, dissolved into anarchy on the streets of the city as tens of thousands of protesters broke through barriers, fought with police, overturned vehicles and hoisted a religious flag from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort.

The Kisan Morcha has disassociated itself from those who indulged in violence during the tractor parade and alleged that some "antisocial elements" infiltrated their otherwise peaceful movement.

(With inputs from agencies)

For weeks, farmers' unions have been protesting in and outside the nation’s capital, demanding the withdrawal of recently passed legislation they say, without evidence, was designed to benefit corporates.

For weeks, farmers' unions have been protesting in and outside the nation’s capital, demanding the withdrawal of recently passed legislation they say, without evidence, was designed to benefit corporates. Also read | Farmers run riot in Delhi on Republic Day There have been multiple rounds of talks with the government but the stalemate continues. A faction of farmers believe that these bills will severely impoverish them but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has a different point of view. IMF's Chief Economist Gita Gopinath has said that India's recently-enacted agriculture laws have the potential to increase farmers' income. "Indian agriculture is in need of reforms. There are multiple areas where the reforms are needed, including infrastructure," the Chief Economist of the Washington-based global financial institution said on Tuesday. The three agri laws, enacted in September last year, have been projected by the Indian government as major reforms in the agriculture sector that will remove middlemen and allow farmers to sell their products anywhere in the country. Gopinath, in response to a question on the new farm laws, said: "These particular farm laws were in the area of marketing. It was widening the market for farmers. Being able to sell to multiple outlets besides the Mandis without having to pay a tax. And this had the potential to raise, in our view, farmers' incomes." "That said, every time reform is put in place, there are transition costs. One has to make sure and pay close attention that it's not harming vulnerable farmers, to make sure that the social safety net is provided. Clearly, there is a discussion right now and we'll see what comes out if it," she said. Thousands of farmers in India, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at several Delhi border points since November 28 last year, demanding a repeal of the farm laws and a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops. So far, 11 rounds of talks have taken place between the government and farmer leaders with both sides hardening their positions. In the last round of talks, the government offered to suspend the laws for 1-1.5 years and form a joint committee to find solutions, in return for protesting farmers going back to their respective homes from Delhi borders. However, farmer leaders said that they would settle for nothing less than a complete repeal of the laws, which they find pro-corporate, and a legal guarantee for the procurement of crops at government-fixed MSP. The Samkyukt Kisan Morcha, an umbrella body of 41 farmer unions, is leading the protest against the three central farm laws at several border points of Delhi. Tuesday's tractor parade in New Delhi, which was to highlight the demands of the farmer unions to repeal three new Agri laws, dissolved into anarchy on the streets of the city as tens of thousands of protesters broke through barriers, fought with police, overturned vehicles and hoisted a religious flag from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort. The Kisan Morcha has disassociated itself from those who indulged in violence during the tractor parade and alleged that some "antisocial elements" infiltrated their otherwise peaceful movement. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s new agriculture laws have potential to raise farm income: IMF's Gita Gopinath

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country.

Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers.

These festivals are celebrated in different forms throughout India, but they all are associated with the joy and gaiety related to harvesting new crops, Kovind said.

He said people celebrate these festivals with a sacred bath, special offerings, charity and rituals.

"Farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. These festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of our farmers," the president was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"May these festivals strengthen the bond of love, affection and harmony in our society and increase prosperity and happiness in the country," he said.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers. These festivals are celebrated in different forms throughout India, but they all are associated with the joy and gaiety related to harvesting new crops, Kovind said. He said people celebrate these festivals with a sacred bath, special offerings, charity and rituals. "Farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. These festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of our farmers," the president was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan. "May these festivals strengthen the bond of love, affection and harmony in our society and increase prosperity and happiness in the country," he said.

Farming, farmers contributed immensely to development of country: President Ram Nath Kovind

Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming.

Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers.

In an interview with ANI, he said that agriculture laws were in favour of farmers and talks should not be held with "yes or no" mindset.

The remarks of the minister came ahead of the sixth round of talks between the government and the farm unions protesting against the new farm laws enacted by the government.

The minister said that farmers should hold clause by clause talks on the three laws and the government will make amendments if there is a need to do so. 
Rajnath Singh, a former union agriculture minister, said the government is totally sensitive towards farmers and the poor of the country and "their pain is our pain".

He said the government cannot take decisions which are not in the interest of farmers.&nbsp;

"Rahulji is younger to me and I know more than him about agriculture. Because I have been born from womb of a farmer-mother. I am the son of a farmer and we cannot take decisions against the farmers. Our Prime Minister was also born from the womb of a poor mother. I want to say this only and there is no need to say anything else," Singh said.

He was asked about Rahul Gandhi meeting President Ram Nath Kovind and presenting a memorandum with over two crore signatures for repeal of three farm laws. The minister said there have been attempts by "some forces to create doubts in the minds of farmers regarding the farm laws".

"We are trying to remove these doubts. We have talked to many farmers and humbly, I want to say it again that talk with government clause by clause on the law. I think talks should not be held in `yes` or `no`. There should talks based on logic. If the government realizes that there is a need to do amendment in any clause, it will do that," he added.

He appealed to farmers of Punjab not to vandalise communication towers."It should not happen. I think farmers of Punjab should think about it. If anyone is involved in this, then it should be stopped," he said.

The minister said that the contribution of Sikh brothers in protecting the country`s self-respect and its culture will always be remembered."India can never forget the sacrifice of Sikh brothers in protecting the self-respect of the country, its culture," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming. Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers.

Launching a scathing attack on at Congress leade, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Rahul Gandhi doesn’t know anything about farming. Speaking over Rahul Gandhi’s attacks on the farm laws, Rajnath Singh said he knows more about agriculture than the Congress leader as he was born in an agriculture family and his parents were both farmers. In an interview with ANI, he said that agriculture laws were in favour of farmers and talks should not be held with "yes or no" mindset. The remarks of the minister came ahead of the sixth round of talks between the government and the farm unions protesting against the new farm laws enacted by the government. The minister said that farmers should hold clause by clause talks on the three laws and the government will make amendments if there is a need to do so. Rajnath Singh, a former union agriculture minister, said the government is totally sensitive towards farmers and the poor of the country and "their pain is our pain". He said the government cannot take decisions which are not in the interest of farmers. "Rahulji is younger to me and I know more than him about agriculture. Because I have been born from womb of a farmer-mother. I am the son of a farmer and we cannot take decisions against the farmers. Our Prime Minister was also born from the womb of a poor mother. I want to say this only and there is no need to say anything else," Singh said. He was asked about Rahul Gandhi meeting President Ram Nath Kovind and presenting a memorandum with over two crore signatures for repeal of three farm laws. The minister said there have been attempts by "some forces to create doubts in the minds of farmers regarding the farm laws". "We are trying to remove these doubts. We have talked to many farmers and humbly, I want to say it again that talk with government clause by clause on the law. I think talks should not be held in `yes` or `no`. There should talks based on logic. If the government realizes that there is a need to do amendment in any clause, it will do that," he added. He appealed to farmers of Punjab not to vandalise communication towers."It should not happen. I think farmers of Punjab should think about it. If anyone is involved in this, then it should be stopped," he said. The minister said that the contribution of Sikh brothers in protecting the country`s self-respect and its culture will always be remembered."India can never forget the sacrifice of Sikh brothers in protecting the self-respect of the country, its culture," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

I’m a farmer’s son, know more about agriculture than Rahul Gandhi: Rajnath Singh

Protesting farmer unions Monday agreed "in-principle" to a government proposal of holding the next round of talks on the new agricultural laws on December 30, but said the Centre should have spelt out the agenda of the meeting in its invite.

Abhimanyu Kohar, a member of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha -- an umbrella body of 40 unions protesting against the contentious legislations -- said the farmers have agreed to go for the meeting on the date proposed by the Centre.

The farmers' acceptance of the proposal came hours after the Centre sent them a letter suggesting December 30 as the date for the dialogue, against December 29 the protesting unions wanted.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-farmers-learn-to-use-drones-for-seed-plantation-352684" hreflang="en">Varanasi farmers learn to use drones for seed plantation</a>

"In our letter sent to the government on December 26, we had clearly mentioned that repeal of three farm laws and legal guarantee for MSP should be part of the agenda for fresh talks, but despite this, the government in letter today has not mentioned any specific agenda," Kohar told PTI.

"But, we have agreed in-principle to hold talks with the government," he said.

The government's latest invite followed a proposal made by unions last week to hold the talks on Tuesday, December 29, on agenda including modalities for the repeal of the three laws enacted in September.

Kohar said the government proposing to hold the talks on December 30, instead of agreeing to farmers' suggestion of December 29, shows the Centre wants to assert its control.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farmers-agree-to-meet-government-over-contentious-farm-laws-352618" hreflang="en">Indian farmers agree to meet government over contentious farm laws</a>

Meanwhile, the Singhu border where thousands of farmers have been camping in protest against the new laws since November 28, visibly swelled up on Monday as new protestors joined in over the weekend.

Navigating the highway-turned-township became challenging with the pathways being cramped as tractors and trolleys of new protestors occupied more and more space at the protest site.

Having already completed one month, the farmers said they were prepared for a long haul, and that essentials such as food and clothing are coming in in sufficient quantities to sustain their agitation.

Apprehensive that the new laws will lead to the elimination of the MSP regime and the mandi system, the farmers have been demanding the three legislations be repealed. The government, on the other hand, has been projecting the laws as major reforms in the agriculture sector.

Several farmers who had gone to their villages after spending a few days at the protest sites have returned with their families.

Amrinder Singh from Patiala had gone back home on December 4, and returned on Saturday with his wife and sister. "More people are coming in, and to keep our fight going, each house in every village in Punjab is giving Rs 1,000."

"More people will be coming from Fatehgarh Sahib on January 2 after a religious event there gets over," he said.&nbsp;

Protesting farmer unions Monday agreed "in-principle" to a government proposal of holding the next round of talks on the new agricultural laws on December 30, but said the Centre should have spelt out the agenda of the meeting in its invite.

Protesting farmer unions Monday agreed "in-principle" to a government proposal of holding the next round of talks on the new agricultural laws on December 30, but said the Centre should have spelt out the agenda of the meeting in its invite. Abhimanyu Kohar, a member of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha -- an umbrella body of 40 unions protesting against the contentious legislations -- said the farmers have agreed to go for the meeting on the date proposed by the Centre. The farmers' acceptance of the proposal came hours after the Centre sent them a letter suggesting December 30 as the date for the dialogue, against December 29 the protesting unions wanted. Also read| Varanasi farmers learn to use drones for seed plantation "In our letter sent to the government on December 26, we had clearly mentioned that repeal of three farm laws and legal guarantee for MSP should be part of the agenda for fresh talks, but despite this, the government in letter today has not mentioned any specific agenda," Kohar told PTI. "But, we have agreed in-principle to hold talks with the government," he said. The government's latest invite followed a proposal made by unions last week to hold the talks on Tuesday, December 29, on agenda including modalities for the repeal of the three laws enacted in September. Kohar said the government proposing to hold the talks on December 30, instead of agreeing to farmers' suggestion of December 29, shows the Centre wants to assert its control. Also read| Indian farmers agree to meet government over contentious farm laws Meanwhile, the Singhu border where thousands of farmers have been camping in protest against the new laws since November 28, visibly swelled up on Monday as new protestors joined in over the weekend. Navigating the highway-turned-township became challenging with the pathways being cramped as tractors and trolleys of new protestors occupied more and more space at the protest site. Having already completed one month, the farmers said they were prepared for a long haul, and that essentials such as food and clothing are coming in in sufficient quantities to sustain their agitation. Apprehensive that the new laws will lead to the elimination of the MSP regime and the mandi system, the farmers have been demanding the three legislations be repealed. The government, on the other hand, has been projecting the laws as major reforms in the agriculture sector. Several farmers who had gone to their villages after spending a few days at the protest sites have returned with their families. Amrinder Singh from Patiala had gone back home on December 4, and returned on Saturday with his wife and sister. "More people are coming in, and to keep our fight going, each house in every village in Punjab is giving Rs 1,000." "More people will be coming from Fatehgarh Sahib on January 2 after a religious event there gets over," he said.

Protesting farmers agree to government proposal for talks on December 30

Farmers from the&nbsp;city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh are now learning how to use drones to plant seeds in their farms. 
 
A team of experts led by the Director of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Ramesh Chand, recently visited the Khutahan village to demonstrate the use of drones during farming. 
 
"The technology will help farmers reduce the cost of farming and increase their efficiency," Chand told the media. He said the farmers were satisfied with the experiment. 
 
He opined that the drones were used in the fields of the `rice-wheat cropping system`, where tractors could not be used for tilling due to wet soil. This cropping system is the main feature of the Indo-Gangetic plains. 
 
He said both rice and wheat have different soil requirements. If rice needs stagnant water conditions, wheat requires well-pulverised soil balanced with moisture, air and thermal regime. Due to this a key feature of the `rice-wheat cropping system` is the annual conversion of soil from aerobic to anaerobic and then back to aerobic conditions. 
 
He said the use of drones could not only enhance overall performance but also encourage farmers to solve other assorted barriers and receive plenty of benefits through precision agriculture. 
 
The demand for drone technology equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and remote sensing features is rising because of its advantages. The system allows drones to shoot pods, seeds and crucial nutrients in the soil. 
 
This technology not only reduces the cost but also increases consistency and efficiency. "It took just 15 minutes to sow the seeds in a field of one bigha," he said, adding that some research and development is needed for further improvement in drone sowing which could also be used in paddy plantation.

Farmers from the city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh are now learning how to use drones to plant seeds in their farms. A team of experts led by the Director of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Ramesh Chand, recently visited the Khutahan village to demonstrate the use of drones during farming.

Farmers from the city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh are now learning how to use drones to plant seeds in their farms. A team of experts led by the Director of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Ramesh Chand, recently visited the Khutahan village to demonstrate the use of drones during farming. "The technology will help farmers reduce the cost of farming and increase their efficiency," Chand told the media. He said the farmers were satisfied with the experiment. He opined that the drones were used in the fields of the `rice-wheat cropping system`, where tractors could not be used for tilling due to wet soil. This cropping system is the main feature of the Indo-Gangetic plains. He said both rice and wheat have different soil requirements. If rice needs stagnant water conditions, wheat requires well-pulverised soil balanced with moisture, air and thermal regime. Due to this a key feature of the `rice-wheat cropping system` is the annual conversion of soil from aerobic to anaerobic and then back to aerobic conditions. He said the use of drones could not only enhance overall performance but also encourage farmers to solve other assorted barriers and receive plenty of benefits through precision agriculture. The demand for drone technology equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and remote sensing features is rising because of its advantages. The system allows drones to shoot pods, seeds and crucial nutrients in the soil. This technology not only reduces the cost but also increases consistency and efficiency. "It took just 15 minutes to sow the seeds in a field of one bigha," he said, adding that some research and development is needed for further improvement in drone sowing which could also be used in paddy plantation.

Varanasi farmers learn to use drones for seed plantation

Leaders of Indian farmers'&nbsp;unions have agreed to meet ministers on Tuesday, possibly paving the way for a seventh-round of talks with the government which has so far failed to mollify growers who say three new agricultural laws threaten their livelihoods.

Worried over farmers' round-the-clock sit-ins on the outskirts of New Delhi, the government of Prime Minister Narendra had on Thursday invited protest leaders to further talks.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-ayushman-bharat-scheme-to-extend-health-insurance-coverage-to-j-k-residents-352536" hreflang="en">PM Modi launches Ayushman Bharat scheme to extend health insurance coverage to J-K residents</a>

Farmers' unions still insist they want the laws repealed, a coalition of unions called Samyukta Kisan Morcha said on Saturday in a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare.

The government says the laws, which came into force in September, will unshackle farmers from having to sell their produce only at regulated wholesale markets. It argues farmers will gain if large traders, retailers and food processors can buy directly from producers, bypassing antiquated wholesale markets.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trying-to-mislead-people-with-distorted-facts-mamata-banerjee-352428" hreflang="en">PM Modi trying to mislead people with distorted facts: Mamata Banerjee</a>

But tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on national highways demanding the government withdraw the laws that they fear will eventually dismantle regulated markets and stop the government buying rice and wheat at guaranteed prices.

Farmers' leaders would also in Tuesday's meeting oppose plans to impose stiff penalties for the burning of crop stubble, a major source of air pollution, according to the farmers' letter seen by Reuters.

Modi has dismissed the farmers' protests as motivated by his political opponents, while the main opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the prime minister of introducing the laws to help a few business people.

Leaders of Indian farmers' unions have agreed to meet ministers on Tuesday, possibly paving the way for a seventh-round of talks with the government which has so far failed to mollify growers who say three new agricultural laws threaten their livelihoods.

Leaders of Indian farmers' unions have agreed to meet ministers on Tuesday, possibly paving the way for a seventh-round of talks with the government which has so far failed to mollify growers who say three new agricultural laws threaten their livelihoods. Worried over farmers' round-the-clock sit-ins on the outskirts of New Delhi, the government of Prime Minister Narendra had on Thursday invited protest leaders to further talks. Also read| PM Modi launches Ayushman Bharat scheme to extend health insurance coverage to J-K residents Farmers' unions still insist they want the laws repealed, a coalition of unions called Samyukta Kisan Morcha said on Saturday in a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare. The government says the laws, which came into force in September, will unshackle farmers from having to sell their produce only at regulated wholesale markets. It argues farmers will gain if large traders, retailers and food processors can buy directly from producers, bypassing antiquated wholesale markets. Also read| PM Modi trying to mislead people with distorted facts: Mamata Banerjee But tens of thousands of farmers have camped out on national highways demanding the government withdraw the laws that they fear will eventually dismantle regulated markets and stop the government buying rice and wheat at guaranteed prices. Farmers' leaders would also in Tuesday's meeting oppose plans to impose stiff penalties for the burning of crop stubble, a major source of air pollution, according to the farmers' letter seen by Reuters. Modi has dismissed the farmers' protests as motivated by his political opponents, while the main opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the prime minister of introducing the laws to help a few business people.

Indian farmers agree to meet government over contentious farm laws

Amid the ongoing protests against the three new agriculture laws, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses nine crore farmers from six states via video conferencing on December 25 - former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary.

PM Modi also interacted with farmers after the release of Rs 18,000 crores as part of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. 
 
Under the PM-KISAN Scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to the eligible beneficiary farmers, payable in three equal 4-monthly instalments of Rs 2000 each through direct benefit transfer.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Union Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar appealed to the protesting farmers to end their protest and hold talks with the government.

"I appeal to the protesting farmers to end their protest and hold talks with the government. I hope they will understand the importance of the new farm laws, and the issue will be resolved soon," Tomar said.&nbsp;

Farmers continue their protest at the borders of Delhi against the Farmers` Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020; and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing protests against the three new agriculture laws, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses nine crore farmers from six states via video conferencing on December 25 - former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary.

Amid the ongoing protests against the three new agriculture laws, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses nine crore farmers from six states via video conferencing on December 25 - former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's birth anniversary. PM Modi also interacted with farmers after the release of Rs 18,000 crores as part of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. Under the PM-KISAN Scheme, a financial benefit of Rs 6,000 per year is provided to the eligible beneficiary farmers, payable in three equal 4-monthly instalments of Rs 2000 each through direct benefit transfer. Meanwhile, Union Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar appealed to the protesting farmers to end their protest and hold talks with the government. "I appeal to the protesting farmers to end their protest and hold talks with the government. I hope they will understand the importance of the new farm laws, and the issue will be resolved soon," Tomar said. Farmers continue their protest at the borders of Delhi against the Farmers` Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020; and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi releases over Rs 18,000 crore for around 9 crore farmers

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Drip irrigation system will reduce water usage, enables farmers to rotate crops

Farmers in India are currently protesting against agricultural reforms. A few politicians outside India have appointed themselves the spokespersons of the Indian farmers.

At the forefront of this is Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, who has presented himself as the guardian of liberal values around the world.&nbsp;Recently, Trudeau lectured India on peaceful protests. To this, India responded firmly by summoning the Canadian High Commissioner - a demarche was issued.&nbsp;

The Indian External Affairs Minister withdrew from an event hosted by Canada in protest. How did Trudeau respond to India's anger? The Canadian PM shrugged and put forth a lesson on fundamental rights. Justin Trudeau says that Canada will stand for the right to peaceful protest, which is commendable. But does he extend the same courtesy to Canadian citizens?&nbsp;

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Has Justin Trudeau - upheld the right to protest for his own citizens?

In February 2020, Canada saw its own share of protests, and blockades. As part of this, rail crossings were closed, passenger and freight trains were disrupted in addition to layoffs. Many even feared there would be a fuel shortage.

<h5>Who was protesting and why?&nbsp;</h5>

The indigenous community was protesting against a gas pipeline that would run through their territory. The community leaders claimed that they never approved of the project. But soon after, a police crackdown followed.

A series of arrests was made in northern British Columbia. One of the community leaders said the police brought: "a whole damn army there".&nbsp; They also conducted a raid, which only made the situation worse. What started as a local issue, turned into a nationwide campaign for a national shutdown.

Did Trudeau hail the peaceful protestors of his country and speak up for their rights? Justin Trudeau said that blockades are "unacceptable and untenable".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/un-chief-comments-on-farmers-protest-in-india-347867" hreflang="en">UN chief comments on farmers protest in India</a>

When Canadians protest, Trudeau wants them to respect the rule of law. When Indian farmers protest and blockade, Trudeau turns it into an issue of human rights. In a video statement, Trudeau said that Canada wants to "defend the rights of peaceful protests". Blockades are as unacceptable in India as in Canada, especially in the middle of a pandemic.

The Canadian prime minister is not alone in practising this hypocrisy. Opposition leader Erin o’Toole said his party is watching the situation in India. Leader of the New Democrats Jagmeet Singh accused the Indian government of "perpetrating violence". His party launched an online petition calling on Trudeau to speak out.

United Kingdom

People with separatist connections laid siege on the Indian High Commission in London over the weekend.

Pro-Khalistan groups were on the streets, protesting with Khalistan flags. The Khalistan movement is a secessionist movement, and members of this group assassinated an Indian prime minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/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>

Those protesting in India are Indian farmers. Those hijacking their cause sitting in Canada and the UK are not.

36 British MPs have now written to the British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab - asking him to raise the issue with India. Protests were also seen in the United States, New Zealand and Australia.&nbsp;

Indian farmers have grievances, which they are addressing through the right to protest. The government is talking to them, and multiple rounds of talks have happened. The efforts to internationalise India's farmer protest are being led by vested interests.

Farmers in India are currently protesting against agricultural reforms. A few politicians outside India have appointed themselves the spokespersons of the Indian farmers.

Farmers in India are currently protesting against agricultural reforms. A few politicians outside India have appointed themselves the spokespersons of the Indian farmers. At the forefront of this is Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, who has presented himself as the guardian of liberal values around the world. Recently, Trudeau lectured India on peaceful protests. To this, India responded firmly by summoning the Canadian High Commissioner - a demarche was issued. The Indian External Affairs Minister withdrew from an event hosted by Canada in protest. How did Trudeau respond to India's anger? The Canadian PM shrugged and put forth a lesson on fundamental rights. Justin Trudeau says that Canada will stand for the right to peaceful protest, which is commendable. But does he extend the same courtesy to Canadian citizens? × Has Justin Trudeau - upheld the right to protest for his own citizens? In February 2020, Canada saw its own share of protests, and blockades. As part of this, rail crossings were closed, passenger and freight trains were disrupted in addition to layoffs. Many even feared there would be a fuel shortage. Who was protesting and why? The indigenous community was protesting against a gas pipeline that would run through their territory. The community leaders claimed that they never approved of the project. But soon after, a police crackdown followed. A series of arrests was made in northern British Columbia. One of the community leaders said the police brought: "a whole damn army there". They also conducted a raid, which only made the situation worse. What started as a local issue, turned into a nationwide campaign for a national shutdown. Did Trudeau hail the peaceful protestors of his country and speak up for their rights? Justin Trudeau said that blockades are "unacceptable and untenable". Also read: UN chief comments on farmers protest in India When Canadians protest, Trudeau wants them to respect the rule of law. When Indian farmers protest and blockade, Trudeau turns it into an issue of human rights. In a video statement, Trudeau said that Canada wants to "defend the rights of peaceful protests". Blockades are as unacceptable in India as in Canada, especially in the middle of a pandemic. The Canadian prime minister is not alone in practising this hypocrisy. Opposition leader Erin o’Toole said his party is watching the situation in India. Leader of the New Democrats Jagmeet Singh accused the Indian government of "perpetrating violence". His party launched an online petition calling on Trudeau to speak out. United Kingdom People with separatist connections laid siege on the Indian High Commission in London over the weekend. Pro-Khalistan groups were on the streets, protesting with Khalistan flags. The Khalistan movement is a secessionist movement, and members of this group assassinated an Indian prime minister. Also read: British MPs support Indian farmers' agitation, write to lawmaker Dominic Raab Those protesting in India are Indian farmers. Those hijacking their cause sitting in Canada and the UK are not. 36 British MPs have now written to the British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab - asking him to raise the issue with India. Protests were also seen in the United States, New Zealand and Australia. Indian farmers have grievances, which they are addressing through the right to protest. The government is talking to them, and multiple rounds of talks have happened. The efforts to internationalise India's farmer protest are being led by vested interests.

Why international politics over Indian farmers is a dangerous trend

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Switzerland voters are set to decide on whether to make it easier to shoot the predators in a highly contested referendum that has farmers and wolf advocates baring their teeth.

Switzerland to hold key vote on future of wolves

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and said people engaged in pisciculture will benefit largely from this scheme.&nbsp;

PM Modi also inaugurated the e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for direct use of farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "It is our aim that in the next 3-4 years we double our production and give fisheries sector a boost.”

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is an Rs 20,050 crore scheme of the Centre, approved by the cabinet in May, is part of the Rs 20 trillion stimulus package to revive the struggling economy and aims to achieve sustainable and responsible development of fisheries.

The e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for the direct use of farmers.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and said people engaged in pisciculture will benefit largely from this scheme. PM Modi also inaugurated the e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for direct use of farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), and said people engaged in pisciculture will benefit largely from this scheme. PM Modi also inaugurated the e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for direct use of farmers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "It is our aim that in the next 3-4 years we double our production and give fisheries sector a boost.” Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) is an Rs 20,050 crore scheme of the Centre, approved by the cabinet in May, is part of the Rs 20 trillion stimulus package to revive the struggling economy and aims to achieve sustainable and responsible development of fisheries. The e-Gopala App, a comprehensive breed improvement marketplace and information portal for the direct use of farmers. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches flagship fisheries scheme, e-Gopala app for farmers

A gunman in Darfur, Sudan, killed more than 20 civilians, witnesses have claimed. The incident took place after the field workers returned to their fields for the first time in years.

The victims included two women and few children. This happened when displaced farmers returned back to their fields after they finalised a deal with the local government which involved the landowners and those who care of their fields.

The incident has been confirmed by the tribal chief and witness Ibrahim Ahmad.

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While the farmers returned putting their trust in the government,&nbsp;"armed men came on Friday and opened fire, killing 20 people, including two women and children," Ahmad confirmed.

"Because of the violence we hadn't been back for 16 years, and we thought it was over," he said.

"The gunmen arrived on pickup trucks, some of which had machine guns on them. They surrounded us from all four sides and opened fire," he continued.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-bans-female-genital-mutilation-allows-non-muslims-to-drink-alcohol-312963">Also read:&nbsp;Sudan bans female genital mutilation, allows non-Muslims to drink alcohol</a>

Ahmad has also said that the death toll from the open firing may rise as several of the wounded are in a critical state in the hospitals.

An anonymous survivor told AFP&nbsp;that out of all the farmers who had returned to make the best use of the rainy season,&nbsp;14 lost their lives immediately, ans&nbsp;a further six died in hospital.

Darfur has been devastated since 2003 by a conflict that has killed 300,000 people and displaced 2.5 million others, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

A gunman in Darfur, Sudan, killed more than 20 civilians, witnesses have claimed. The incident took place after the field workers returned to their fields for the first time in years.

A gunman in Darfur, Sudan, killed more than 20 civilians, witnesses have claimed. The incident took place after the field workers returned to their fields for the first time in years. The victims included two women and few children. This happened when displaced farmers returned back to their fields after they finalised a deal with the local government which involved the landowners and those who care of their fields. The incident has been confirmed by the tribal chief and witness Ibrahim Ahmad. Have a look: Dispute about Ethiopia's controversial Nile dam While the farmers returned putting their trust in the government, "armed men came on Friday and opened fire, killing 20 people, including two women and children," Ahmad confirmed. "Because of the violence we hadn't been back for 16 years, and we thought it was over," he said. "The gunmen arrived on pickup trucks, some of which had machine guns on them. They surrounded us from all four sides and opened fire," he continued. Also read: Sudan bans female genital mutilation, allows non-Muslims to drink alcohol Ahmad has also said that the death toll from the open firing may rise as several of the wounded are in a critical state in the hospitals. An anonymous survivor told AFP that out of all the farmers who had returned to make the best use of the rainy season, 14 lost their lives immediately, ans a further six died in hospital. Darfur has been devastated since 2003 by a conflict that has killed 300,000 people and displaced 2.5 million others, according to the United Nations.

Gunman open fired at field workers in Sudan; 20 dead, several wounded

Farmers across the country are staring at a bleak future as they are not able to sell their yields due to nation-wide coronavirus lockdown.&nbsp;

Growers of marigold and rose in Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh said that their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to coronavirus lockdown.

"Flowers are drying up in the field as we are unable to sell them, leading us to huge losses," a farmer says.

The story is not different in Karnataka.&nbsp;

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Karnataka: Banana farmers in Shivamogga say their crop is rotting &amp; they are incurring losses amid lockdown due to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. Vijayendra, a farmer says,"Local buyers are asking to sell bananas at Rs 5/4 per kg which is impossible for us. I don't know what we can do." (12.4.2020) <a href="https://t.co/luoL0zsTeZ">pic.twitter.com/luoL0zsTeZ</a>
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Banana farmers in Shivamogga in Karnataka say their crop is rotting and they are incurring losses amid lockdown.&nbsp;

Vijayendra, a farmer says, "Local buyers are asking to sell bananas at Rs 5/4 per kg which is impossible for us. I don't know what we can do."&nbsp;

Similarly, potters in Odisha are facing losses due to the lockdown.&nbsp;

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Moradabad: Growers of marigold &amp; rose say their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoronavirusLockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoronavirusLockdown</a>. "Flowers are drying up in the field as we are unable to sell them, leading us to huge losses," a farmer says. <a href="https://t.co/ANEBKeTgTQ">pic.twitter.com/ANEBKeTgTQ</a>
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S Maduli, a porter says, "On Maha Bishuba Sankranti (Odia New Year) every year we sell clay items. But this year due to coronavirus we don't have customers and our businesses are suffering. The government should help us"

The total number of deaths rose to 308. 35 died in last 24 hours; India's total number of coronavirus positive cases has risen to 9152 (including 7987 active cases, 856 cured/discharged/migrated and 308 deaths), according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Farmers across the country are staring at a bleak future as they are not able to sell their yields due to nation-wide coronavirus lockdown. Growers of marigold and rose in Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh said that their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to coronavirus lockdown.

Farmers across the country are staring at a bleak future as they are not able to sell their yields due to nation-wide coronavirus lockdown. Growers of marigold and rose in Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh said that their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to coronavirus lockdown. "Flowers are drying up in the field as we are unable to sell them, leading us to huge losses," a farmer says. The story is not different in Karnataka. Karnataka: Banana farmers in Shivamogga say their crop is rotting & they are incurring losses amid lockdown due to #COVID19. Vijayendra, a farmer says,"Local buyers are asking to sell bananas at Rs 5/4 per kg which is impossible for us. I don't know what we can do." (12.4.2020) pic.twitter.com/luoL0zsTeZ — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2020 × Banana farmers in Shivamogga in Karnataka say their crop is rotting and they are incurring losses amid lockdown. Vijayendra, a farmer says, "Local buyers are asking to sell bananas at Rs 5/4 per kg which is impossible for us. I don't know what we can do." Similarly, potters in Odisha are facing losses due to the lockdown. Moradabad: Growers of marigold & rose say their flowers are drying up in the field as markets are shut due to #CoronavirusLockdown. "Flowers are drying up in the field as we are unable to sell them, leading us to huge losses," a farmer says. pic.twitter.com/ANEBKeTgTQ — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 13, 2020 × S Maduli, a porter says, "On Maha Bishuba Sankranti (Odia New Year) every year we sell clay items. But this year due to coronavirus we don't have customers and our businesses are suffering. The government should help us" The total number of deaths rose to 308. 35 died in last 24 hours; India's total number of coronavirus positive cases has risen to 9152 (including 7987 active cases, 856 cured/discharged/migrated and 308 deaths), according to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Farmers stare at bleak future amid nationwide coronavirus lockdown 

While millions are forced to quarantine at home, farmers in Bolivia and Colombia must work to supply the food needs of large cities yet precaution measures, such as wearing masks and avoiding human contact, are not regularly applied in the field, leaving farmers at risk.

Latin American farmers risk illness to feed their nations amid coronavirus outbreak

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