After recent rains, the dam on Kevin Tongue's property near Tamworth in New South Wales is more than three metres deep. Looking back to 2018, the dam had been empty for months during one of the worst droughts on record, decimating his wheat and barley crop.

From bone-dry to lush greenery, rainfall brings respite for Australian farmer

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-farmers-seek-state-bjp-chiefs-support-to-oppose-3-capitals-plan-of-jagan-government-270016">farmers </a>were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-farmers-protest-against-gn-rao-committee-report-runs-into-day-3-269542">issue of farmers</a>' suicide in Maharashtra.

"It is ok if political leaders do not give money to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-farmers-protests-in-a-unique-way-264942">farmers</a>. They do not only need loan waivers, but they also need emotional support and encouragement. We need to talk to them. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-cabinet-meeting-thackeray-announces-rs-20-crore-for-raigads-development-265144">Farmers </a>are not beggars," he said while addressing a public event in Chinchwad city of Maharashtra.

<img alt="Farmers in India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0829fd21-cd57-4b0f-91d2-a92fdaccd0a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2877%29_2.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Farmers in India (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-wont-be-eligible-for-waiver-scheme-if-loan-exceeds-rs-2-lakh-maharashtra-government-270778">Farmers won't be eligible for waiver scheme if loan exceeds Rs 2 lakh: Maharashtra government</a>

He also stressed up-on fixing the prices of the vegetables and urged people not to bargain with the vegetable vendors.

"Everything here has a fixed price but on our tomato and potato, there is no price label. Your fees are fixed, the prices of the cars are fixed...I request you all not to bargain with the vegetable vendors on the streets. We must all think about the problems farmers are facing..."

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that farmers were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the issue of farmers' suicide in Maharashtra.

Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Thursday said that farmers were not beggars and they need emotional support along with financial support to resolve the issue of farmers' suicide in Maharashtra. "It is ok if political leaders do not give money to farmers. They do not only need loan waivers, but they also need emotional support and encouragement. We need to talk to them. Farmers are not beggars," he said while addressing a public event in Chinchwad city of Maharashtra. [ Farmers in India (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Also Read: Farmers won't be eligible for waiver scheme if loan exceeds Rs 2 lakh: Maharashtra government He also stressed up-on fixing the prices of the vegetables and urged people not to bargain with the vegetable vendors. "Everything here has a fixed price but on our tomato and potato, there is no price label. Your fees are fixed, the prices of the cars are fixed...I request you all not to bargain with the vegetable vendors on the streets. We must all think about the problems farmers are facing..."

Farmers are not beggars, don't need just loan waivers: Nana Patekar

India pulled out of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rcep-pull-out-in-the-face-of-chinese-products-potentially-flooding-the-market-india-wants-to-reduce-deficits-and-keep-data-localisation-intact-260125">RCEP</a>) at the last minute because the deal would hurt the farmers, businesses, workers, and consumers. Whereas, China joined the deal with 14 different countries.&nbsp;

India has yet not closed the door on China-led regional economic pact, Asia's third-largest country pulled out of the deal last November, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said on Wednesday.

10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-offer-1000-phd-fellowships-to-asean-students-at-iits-249692">ASEAN</a>), China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand were brought together in RCEP.&nbsp;

"Where RCEP is concerned, we have to look at cost and benefit. We will evaluate RCEP on its economic and trade merit. We have not closed our mind to it," Jaishankar said.

( Inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

India pulled out of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) at the last minute because the deal would hurt the farmers, businesses, workers, and consumers.

India pulled out of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) at the last minute because the deal would hurt the farmers, businesses, workers, and consumers. Whereas, China joined the deal with 14 different countries. India has yet not closed the door on China-led regional economic pact, Asia's third-largest country pulled out of the deal last November, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said on Wednesday. 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand were brought together in RCEP. "Where RCEP is concerned, we have to look at cost and benefit. We will evaluate RCEP on its economic and trade merit. We have not closed our mind to it," Jaishankar said. ( Inputs from Reuters)

India pulled out of RCEP, as the deal might hurt Indians

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-extends-new-year-greetings-to-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-271462">Narendra Modi</a> on Thursday said that agriculture has a key role to play in helping the country achieve its goal of becoming a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-gains-by-321-points-as-nifty-closes-on-high-record-tata-motors-on-top-winner-271672">five trillion dollar economy</a> and the government was focusing on formulating a cash crop and export-centric farming system. 
 
Addressing a gathering here after distributing Krishi Karman Awards, Modi said that the effort of the Central government has led to an increase in the production and export of spices in the country. 
 
"The agriculture sector has a very important role to play in making India a five trillion dollar economy. For this, our government is focusing on formulating a cash crop and export centric farming system," he said. 
 
Modi said that production of spices has crossed 25 lakh tonne and their export has risen from Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 19,000 crore. 
 
He said the government was not only solving problems of farmers but also working towards a better future for them. 
 
"We have made arrangements so that farmers can sell their produce at any e-mandi across the country through the e-NAM network. We've also made facilities for cold storage," he said. 
 
Modi also said the government has started an immunization program for cattle. 
 
"We have started an immunization program for the cattle to ensure they do not have to spend a lot of money. We have also started PM KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan) scheme so that the farmers can also become energy-producers and sell it to the grid," he said. 
 
The Prime Minister also talked about efforts being made by the Centre to solve specific <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-jharkhand-in-charge-rpn-singh-calls-meeting-of-mlas-in-ranchi-269947">issues of farmers</a> producing crops such as coconut, cashew, rubber, and coffee. 
 
Modi said that the government is working at three levels to strengthen fisheries - promoting fisheries in villages with financial assistance, modernization of boats under blue revolution scheme and construction of modern fishing infrastructure. 
 
He said that the Central government has also put aside Rs 7,500 crore as a special fund for building modern fishing infrastructure. 
 
He said people in the fishing trade have been connected to Kisan Credit Cards. 
 
"Fishing boats are also being modernized for deep-sea fishing and navigation devices are being installed on them with the help of ISRO," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that agriculture has a key role to play in helping the country achieve its goal of becoming a five trillion dollar economy and the government was focusing on formulating a cash crop and export-centric farming system.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that agriculture has a key role to play in helping the country achieve its goal of becoming a five trillion dollar economy and the government was focusing on formulating a cash crop and export-centric farming system. Addressing a gathering here after distributing Krishi Karman Awards, Modi said that the effort of the Central government has led to an increase in the production and export of spices in the country. "The agriculture sector has a very important role to play in making India a five trillion dollar economy. For this, our government is focusing on formulating a cash crop and export centric farming system," he said. Modi said that production of spices has crossed 25 lakh tonne and their export has risen from Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 19,000 crore. He said the government was not only solving problems of farmers but also working towards a better future for them. "We have made arrangements so that farmers can sell their produce at any e-mandi across the country through the e-NAM network. We've also made facilities for cold storage," he said. Modi also said the government has started an immunization program for cattle. "We have started an immunization program for the cattle to ensure they do not have to spend a lot of money. We have also started PM KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan) scheme so that the farmers can also become energy-producers and sell it to the grid," he said. The Prime Minister also talked about efforts being made by the Centre to solve specific issues of farmers producing crops such as coconut, cashew, rubber, and coffee. Modi said that the government is working at three levels to strengthen fisheries - promoting fisheries in villages with financial assistance, modernization of boats under blue revolution scheme and construction of modern fishing infrastructure. He said that the Central government has also put aside Rs 7,500 crore as a special fund for building modern fishing infrastructure. He said people in the fishing trade have been connected to Kisan Credit Cards. "Fishing boats are also being modernized for deep-sea fishing and navigation devices are being installed on them with the help of ISRO," he said.

Agriculture has major role in making India $ 5 trillion economy: PM Narendra Modi

Somalia is facing a locust attack, with the farmers pleading the government and the international community to protect their crops.&nbsp;

Many are unable to feed their families owing to the attack, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"Locusts already ate our grazing area so we are now fighting to save at least our farm, where we planted watermelon and beans. We aren't able to protect them and we call on the Somali government and international community to help us", said Jamad Mohamed, a farmer in Dhusamareb, the provincial capital of Galgadud, a semi-autonomous region.

"Locusts devoured the whole area and have now reached our farm to eat our plants, as you can see," said Jirow Qorhere, another Somali farmer. "This is the end, we have nothing left to feed our children and we aren’t even able to buy from the market."

According to sources, the insects have destroyed 175,000 acres of farmland in Somalia and neighbouring Ethiopia. This has put their food supplies under threat. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) called it the worst locust invasion in 70 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

Somalia is facing a locust attack, with the farmers pleading the government and the international community to protect their crops. Many are unable to feed their families owing to the attack, Reuters reported.

Somalia is facing a locust attack, with the farmers pleading the government and the international community to protect their crops. Many are unable to feed their families owing to the attack, Reuters reported. "Locusts already ate our grazing area so we are now fighting to save at least our farm, where we planted watermelon and beans. We aren't able to protect them and we call on the Somali government and international community to help us", said Jamad Mohamed, a farmer in Dhusamareb, the provincial capital of Galgadud, a semi-autonomous region. "Locusts devoured the whole area and have now reached our farm to eat our plants, as you can see," said Jirow Qorhere, another Somali farmer. "This is the end, we have nothing left to feed our children and we aren’t even able to buy from the market." According to sources, the insects have destroyed 175,000 acres of farmland in Somalia and neighbouring Ethiopia. This has put their food supplies under threat. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) called it the worst locust invasion in 70 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Locust invasion in Somalia threatens livelihoods of farmers

Farmers of Amaravati capital region villages on Tuesday met Andhra Pradesh BJP President Kanna Lakshmi Narayana here to seek his support for their protest against the government's proposal of three capitals in the state.

The farmers appealed to the BJP state president to take the matter to the notice of Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-unveil-atal-bihari-vajpayee-statue-in-lucknow-tomorrow-269943">Narendra Modi</a>. Narayana assured the farmers that BJP would stand by them.

Speaking on the occasion, the state BJP president said "Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-cm-jagan-reddy-proposes-3-capitals-for-andhra-pradesh-268817">YS Jaganmohan Reddy</a> should change his idea of three capitals. Change of policies whenever government changes is not correct."

Narayana also said that Jagan's attitude seems to be vindictive.

"Dictatorial attitude is not good for anybody. That will lead to troubles. There is a connection between capital and development. The decision of three capitals will be problematic for administration," he added.

Earlier yesterday, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/andhra-chief-minister-n-chandrababu-naidu-to-meet-election-commission-today-219381">N Chandrababu Naidu</a> also expressed solidarity with the farmers who are agitating against Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's idea of three capitals in the state.

Farmers of Amaravati capital region villages on Tuesday met Andhra Pradesh BJP President Kanna Lakshmi Narayana here to seek his support for their protest against the government's proposal of three capitals in the state.

Farmers of Amaravati capital region villages on Tuesday met Andhra Pradesh BJP President Kanna Lakshmi Narayana here to seek his support for their protest against the government's proposal of three capitals in the state. The farmers appealed to the BJP state president to take the matter to the notice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Narayana assured the farmers that BJP would stand by them. Speaking on the occasion, the state BJP president said "Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy should change his idea of three capitals. Change of policies whenever government changes is not correct." Narayana also said that Jagan's attitude seems to be vindictive. "Dictatorial attitude is not good for anybody. That will lead to troubles. There is a connection between capital and development. The decision of three capitals will be problematic for administration," he added. Earlier yesterday, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu also expressed solidarity with the farmers who are agitating against Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's idea of three capitals in the state.

Andhra Pradesh: Farmers seek state BJP chief's support to oppose plan of three capitals

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner.

Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same.

The BJP led state dispensation has also said to have released a payment of Rs 76,943.02 crores to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/question-those-who-opposed-repealing-article-370-says-amit-shah-254551">sugarcane</a> farmers as prices for their produce.

Also, Rs 114.07 crores as payment against unpaid cane prices to 85,178 farmers in the state by launching a campaign in cooperative cane societies and sugar mills.

The total unpaid sugar cane price payment stood at Rs 129.37 crores.

Of the total Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers, Rs.30,161 crores for crushing season 2018-19, as well as cane price payment of Rs.673.05 crores for the current crushing season 2019-20, is included.

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner. Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same.

The Uttar Pradesh government has given instructions for daily monitoring of the "sugarcane price payment" by the department commissioner. Sugar industry minister Suresh Rana has given instructions regarding the same. The BJP led state dispensation has also said to have released a payment of Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers as prices for their produce. Also, Rs 114.07 crores as payment against unpaid cane prices to 85,178 farmers in the state by launching a campaign in cooperative cane societies and sugar mills. The total unpaid sugar cane price payment stood at Rs 129.37 crores. Of the total Rs 76,943.02 crores to the sugarcane farmers, Rs.30,161 crores for crushing season 2018-19, as well as cane price payment of Rs.673.05 crores for the current crushing season 2019-20, is included.

Uttar Pradesh government to monitor sugarcane price payment on daily basis

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-haryana-polls-bjp-upbeat-ahead-of-results-says-opposition-marred-by-infighting-257582">Narendra Singh Tomar</a> on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard.

"There is no problem related to the availability of Urea. As far as its distribution is concerned the state government should look into it and I think they are working on it," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi.

A severe shortage of urea which is considered as valuable fertilizer led to a scuffle amongst Madhya Pradesh farmers in Ashok Naga on December 10.

It has been noticed that the state has been facing a urea crisis, leading to a blame game between the Centre and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-six-others-take-oath-as-ministers-of-uddhav-led-maha-vikas-aghadi-government-265137">Kamal Nath</a> led state government.

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard.

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar on Wednesday commented on the Urea shortage in Madhya Pradesh and said the state government is working in this regard. "There is no problem related to the availability of Urea. As far as its distribution is concerned the state government should look into it and I think they are working on it," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi. A severe shortage of urea which is considered as valuable fertilizer led to a scuffle amongst Madhya Pradesh farmers in Ashok Naga on December 10. It has been noticed that the state has been facing a urea crisis, leading to a blame game between the Centre and the Kamal Nath led state government.

No problem in availability of urea, state government should look into distribution: Narendra Singh Tomar

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

Gravitas: Why are Europe's farmers protesting?

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Maharashtra farmers</a>.

The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported.

NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-chances-for-mid-term-elections-in-maharashtra-stable-government-will-be-formed-sharad-pawar-262490">Farmers in the state</a> have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas.&nbsp;

On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers.&nbsp;

He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops.

(With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers.

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers. The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported. NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister". Farmers in the state have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas. On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers. He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops. (With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar will discuss Maharashtra farmers' issues with PM Modi today

On the road where they say nine local people were shot by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-announce-transparent-elections-soon-bolivias-interim-president-jeanine-anez-262795">Bolivian security</a> forces last week, coca growers mourn the dead and vow to resist interim president Jeanine Anez.

The farmers are supporters of ex-president Evo Morales, who was forced to resign in what he said was a coup as Bolivia has been rocked by violent protests after a disputed election.

The farmers say the military and police opened fire when pro-Morales protesters tried to enter the central city of Cochabamba on Friday, in the deadliest incident of the month-long wave of demonstrations.

Shortly before, Anez had issued a presidential decree granting security forces immunity from prosecution.

"Before this, there were protests, but they did not use bullets... now anyone can come, fire bullets and not get punished," said Jaime Marcas, 26, wearing a woollen cap with earmuffs.

The road from Sacaba, the site of the killings, to Cochabamba,&nbsp;a Morales stronghold,&nbsp;has been blocked by security forces.

"They don't let us into the city. They check everything, as if it were a border," Leonor Gonzalez told AFP, her face full of fury.

She said the security forces on Friday deceived them by saying that they would let women go first into the city, but then they shot the men who were kept behind.

Watch: Bolivia - When chemistry sparked a political crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-bolivia-when-chemistry-sparked-a-political-crisis-262179/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Interior Minister Arturo Murillo has hinted that the farmers may have fired at each other, but they deny being armed.

Scattered stones, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivians-queue-for-chicken-and-fuel-as-protests-cripple-highways-262779">burnt tires and bundles of abandoned hats</a> and shoes mark the scene of the incident.

"These are from those people who managed to run," said one of the farmers standing guard amid the crowd.

Nearby, nine black metal crosses with floral tributes wilting in the heat have been erected to remember the dead.

The unrest in Bolivia first erupted after Morales,&nbsp;the country's first indigenous president,&nbsp;was accused of rigging the results of the October 20 polls to gain reelection to a fourth term.

He resigned and fled to Mexico after losing the support of the security forces.

Anez, the former deputy speaker of the Senate, declared herself the interim president and has pledged to call elections soon.

But in Sacaba, nobody wants to hear about new elections until Anez steps down.

"We do not want this government, we do not know it. We feel anger, all the people in general. Now people are not afraid,&nbsp;the government have reneged (on its promises), and we push through to the end," warned Marcelo Pacchi, 42.

When one person in the crowd mentioned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolivia-crisis-could-spin-out-of-control-as-death-toll-keeps-increasing-united-nations-262639">all-party talks as the way forward for Bolivia</a>, it sparked fury in the crowd.

"No dialogue!" shouted another, earning loud applause.

On the road where they say nine local people were shot by Bolivian security forces last week, coca growers mourn the dead and vow to resist interim president Jeanine Anez.

On the road where they say nine local people were shot by Bolivian security forces last week, coca growers mourn the dead and vow to resist interim president Jeanine Anez. The farmers are supporters of ex-president Evo Morales, who was forced to resign in what he said was a coup as Bolivia has been rocked by violent protests after a disputed election. The farmers say the military and police opened fire when pro-Morales protesters tried to enter the central city of Cochabamba on Friday, in the deadliest incident of the month-long wave of demonstrations. Shortly before, Anez had issued a presidential decree granting security forces immunity from prosecution. "Before this, there were protests, but they did not use bullets... now anyone can come, fire bullets and not get punished," said Jaime Marcas, 26, wearing a woollen cap with earmuffs. The road from Sacaba, the site of the killings, to Cochabamba, a Morales stronghold, has been blocked by security forces. "They don't let us into the city. They check everything, as if it were a border," Leonor Gonzalez told AFP, her face full of fury. She said the security forces on Friday deceived them by saying that they would let women go first into the city, but then they shot the men who were kept behind. Watch: Bolivia - When chemistry sparked a political crisis Interior Minister Arturo Murillo has hinted that the farmers may have fired at each other, but they deny being armed. Scattered stones, burnt tires and bundles of abandoned hats and shoes mark the scene of the incident. "These are from those people who managed to run," said one of the farmers standing guard amid the crowd. Nearby, nine black metal crosses with floral tributes wilting in the heat have been erected to remember the dead. The unrest in Bolivia first erupted after Morales, the country's first indigenous president, was accused of rigging the results of the October 20 polls to gain reelection to a fourth term. He resigned and fled to Mexico after losing the support of the security forces. Anez, the former deputy speaker of the Senate, declared herself the interim president and has pledged to call elections soon. But in Sacaba, nobody wants to hear about new elections until Anez steps down. "We do not want this government, we do not know it. We feel anger, all the people in general. Now people are not afraid, the government have reneged (on its promises), and we push through to the end," warned Marcelo Pacchi, 42. When one person in the crowd mentioned all-party talks as the way forward for Bolivia, it sparked fury in the crowd. "No dialogue!" shouted another, earning loud applause.

Bolivian farmers protest against interim president at site of killings

A vehicle of crusher plant was set ablaze by agitated farmers in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Sunday after the administration refused to grant them compensation for the land acquired by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) for the ambitious Trans-Ganga City. 
 
"Some miscreants are doing this. We will go to villages and appeal to people to maintain peace. This is a deed of miscreants. We'll maintain peace and the work (Trans Ganga City project) will also go on," said Devendra Pandey, District Magistrate (DM) while speaking to media. 
 
Notably, a pipe, kept in front of a power substation in Unnao, was also allegedly set ablaze by farmers in the morning to mark their protest. 
 
The protesting farmers claim that their land was acquired by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) a few years back without any holding discussions with them and no compensation has been deposited in their bank accounts yet. 
 
"We have been promised that we will get compensation. We have held several meetings with the police and officials but nothing has been done so far in the matter," said a farmer. 
 
However, the official denied such claims said that each farmer has been given compensation to them in the past. Trans-Ganga City is being constructed for this development only. The situation is normal here," said an official from UPSIDA while speaking to ANI. 
 
On Saturday, scores of farmers pelted stones at the JCB machine which was deployed to carry out work for the high-tech trans-Ganga city, claiming that they have not received compensation for their land acquired by the UPSIDA&nbsp;in 2012. 
 
Trans Ganga City is the planned satellite township in the Indian province of Uttar Pradesh in the Unnao district which comes under the Kanpur metropolitan area. 
 
The area comprises the stretch from the limits of the Unnao Municipality to the Ganga river near Kanpur on NH 25 and Unnao-Shuklaganj Highway. 
 
The Uttar Pradesh government has also proposed a Skill Development University near the proposed Hi-tech city.

A vehicle of crusher plant was set ablaze by agitated farmers in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Sunday after the administration refused to grant them compensation for the land acquired by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) for the ambitious Trans-Ganga City.

A vehicle of crusher plant was set ablaze by agitated farmers in Uttar Pradesh's Unnao on Sunday after the administration refused to grant them compensation for the land acquired by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) for the ambitious Trans-Ganga City. "Some miscreants are doing this. We will go to villages and appeal to people to maintain peace. This is a deed of miscreants. We'll maintain peace and the work (Trans Ganga City project) will also go on," said Devendra Pandey, District Magistrate (DM) while speaking to media. Notably, a pipe, kept in front of a power substation in Unnao, was also allegedly set ablaze by farmers in the morning to mark their protest. The protesting farmers claim that their land was acquired by the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) a few years back without any holding discussions with them and no compensation has been deposited in their bank accounts yet. "We have been promised that we will get compensation. We have held several meetings with the police and officials but nothing has been done so far in the matter," said a farmer. However, the official denied such claims said that each farmer has been given compensation to them in the past. Trans-Ganga City is being constructed for this development only. The situation is normal here," said an official from UPSIDA while speaking to ANI. On Saturday, scores of farmers pelted stones at the JCB machine which was deployed to carry out work for the high-tech trans-Ganga city, claiming that they have not received compensation for their land acquired by the UPSIDA in 2012. Trans Ganga City is the planned satellite township in the Indian province of Uttar Pradesh in the Unnao district which comes under the Kanpur metropolitan area. The area comprises the stretch from the limits of the Unnao Municipality to the Ganga river near Kanpur on NH 25 and Unnao-Shuklaganj Highway. The Uttar Pradesh government has also proposed a Skill Development University near the proposed Hi-tech city.

Agitated farmers set vehicle ablaze to protest against Trans-Ganga project

Israelis were prevented from entering Jordanian border enclaves on Sunday after a deal allowing farmers to work land there expired, 25 years after a landmark peace treaty.

Since the two countries signed the deal in 1994, Jordan has allowed Israeli farmers access to the territories of Ghumar in the north and Baqura in the south under a renewable 25-year arrangement.

In October last year however, Jordan's King Abdullah said his country had notified Israel that it wants them back.

An AFP journalist in northern Israel on Sunday said the yellow gate to a bridge over the river dividing the two countries, long the portal for Israeli farmers to access Baqura, was locked.

Baqura, known in Hebrew as Naharayim, lines on a spit of land where the Jordan and Yarmuk rivers meet.

Ghumar, deep in the Negev desert south of the Dead Sea, is known in Hebrew as Tzofar.

The lands have been privately owned by Israeli entities for decades, but the 1994 deal saw the kingdom retain sovereignty there.

Since the heady days of Israel's second peace treaty with an Arab state -- after Egypt -- relations with Amman have been strained.

Opinion polls have repeatedly found that the peace treaty with Israel is overwhelmingly opposed by Jordanians, more than half of whom are of Palestinian origin.

In 1997, a Jordanian soldier opened fire at a group of Israeli schoolgirls touring the so-called "Peace Island" at Naharayim, killing seven and prompting then-King Hussein to conduct condolences visits with the families.

In 2017, an Israeli embassy security guard in Amman killed two Jordanians.

Three years earlier, an Israeli soldier at a border crossing killed a Jordanian judge he deemed a threat. &nbsp;

Just last month, Amman recalled its ambassador from Israel over the prolonged detention without trial in the Jewish state of two Jordanians. The ambassador returned after the two were released.

Israelis were prevented from entering Jordanian border enclaves on Sunday after a deal allowing farmers to work land there expired, 25 years after a landmark peace treaty.

Israelis were prevented from entering Jordanian border enclaves on Sunday after a deal allowing farmers to work land there expired, 25 years after a landmark peace treaty. Since the two countries signed the deal in 1994, Jordan has allowed Israeli farmers access to the territories of Ghumar in the north and Baqura in the south under a renewable 25-year arrangement. In October last year however, Jordan's King Abdullah said his country had notified Israel that it wants them back. An AFP journalist in northern Israel on Sunday said the yellow gate to a bridge over the river dividing the two countries, long the portal for Israeli farmers to access Baqura, was locked. Baqura, known in Hebrew as Naharayim, lines on a spit of land where the Jordan and Yarmuk rivers meet. Ghumar, deep in the Negev desert south of the Dead Sea, is known in Hebrew as Tzofar. The lands have been privately owned by Israeli entities for decades, but the 1994 deal saw the kingdom retain sovereignty there. Since the heady days of Israel's second peace treaty with an Arab state -- after Egypt -- relations with Amman have been strained. Opinion polls have repeatedly found that the peace treaty with Israel is overwhelmingly opposed by Jordanians, more than half of whom are of Palestinian origin. In 1997, a Jordanian soldier opened fire at a group of Israeli schoolgirls touring the so-called "Peace Island" at Naharayim, killing seven and prompting then-King Hussein to conduct condolences visits with the families. In 2017, an Israeli embassy security guard in Amman killed two Jordanians. Three years earlier, an Israeli soldier at a border crossing killed a Jordanian judge he deemed a threat. Just last month, Amman recalled its ambassador from Israel over the prolonged detention without trial in the Jewish state of two Jordanians. The ambassador returned after the two were released.

Farmers blocked as Israel-Jordan enclave deal expires

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble.

Speaking to ANI, a farmer Gajjan Singh said, "We are forced to burn the stubble. If the government starts giving us compensation for managing stubble, we will not burn the straw."

The farmer, however, said that pollution is being caused due to growing number of vehicles on roads and emissions from the factories.

Farmers in Punjab and Haryana usually burn crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn to clear the fields for the summer crop.&nbsp;

Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution level.&nbsp;

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble.

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble. Speaking to ANI, a farmer Gajjan Singh said, "We are forced to burn the stubble. If the government starts giving us compensation for managing stubble, we will not burn the straw." The farmer, however, said that pollution is being caused due to growing number of vehicles on roads and emissions from the factories. Farmers in Punjab and Haryana usually burn crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn to clear the fields for the summer crop. Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution level.

We will not burn straw if we are compensated for managing stubble, says Punjab farmer

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-nrc-final-list-published-opposition-fears-many-indian-citizens-left-out-246920">Assam</a> Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

The first flight which took off from LGBI Airport witnessed the traditional water saluting.

Industry and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Chief Ministers Media Adviser Hrishikesh Goswami, MLA Bimal Bora and a host of other dignitaries were present at the occasion.

Nok Air, which will be flying its sortie between Guwahati and Bangkok, has carefully drafted its sorties to enable passengers to reach the destination at Don Mueang near Bangkok in less than three hours, offering a convenient connection to both business and leisure travellers twice in a week.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Sonowal viewed that the introduction of the flight is not just an extension of the airline route but more importantly a futuristic gesture, which will go a long way in reinforcing the cultural and economic ties between Assam and Thailand and strengthening the bilateral relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-cm-sarbananda-sonowal-calls-for-implementation-of-nrc-across-all-states-in-india-165006">Sonowal</a> observed that connectivity has always remained a major bottleneck in the optimum realisation of the growth prospects of the region. Keeping this in view, the Central Government has taken up steps to connect six Southeast Asian destinations from Guwahati under UDAN scheme.&nbsp;

On July 1st this year, the first Guwahati-Dhaka flight by Spicejet under International Air Connectivity Scheme was flagged off. The flight marked the roll-out of UDAN-International, pioneered by Assam Government with viability gap funding of Rs 100 crore. In the next few months, flights connecting to Kathmandu, Yangon, Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur will also commence.

Last year DrukAir - Royal Bhutan Airlines introduced a Paro-Guwahati-Singapore flight. The Central government has also taken a historic decision to bring 19 destinations in the Northeast including five cities in Assam under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN-2. This initiative would significantly facilitate regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable for the masses.

The Union Government aims to turn LGBI Airport into an International airport, connecting Southeast Asia. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport has undergone numerous expansions and renovations since its establishment in 1958. It handled more than 3.7 million passengers in 2017, an increase of 36 per cent from 2016. It has witnessed an annual traffic increase of over 23 per cent in 2018-19 with a total footfall of 5.7 million passengers and 55,066 aircraft movements in the same period.

The existing terminal building at the airport has a maximum handling capacity of 850 arrivals per departure passengers an hour. The work on a new terminal has already made significant progress. This will further boost the growth narrative of the entire region.

The new terminal will be the first sustainable terminal of the North East having sewage treatment plant, solar power, rainwater harvesting, solid waste disposal system and energy-efficient lighting. Once completed, this would generate around 3000 direct employment and approximately 20,000 indirect employments.

Boosting the State government's efforts, Bangladesh and Bhutan governments have already set up their embassies in Guwahati. The 10 ASEAN nations are also expected to set up their embassies in Guwahati soon. The Act East Policy of the Government of India gives new hope for the growth of the region. The newly found confidence of the people in the state can be witnessed in all spheres of socio-cultural and economic life.&nbsp;

As an offshoot of the efforts of the State government, farmers of Assam for the first time could successfully export their agricultural produce to London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other foreign countries.

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.

Giving a boost to the State governments initiatives to transform Guwahati as a gateway to the ASEAN region, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday flagged off the first flight to Bangkok at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport. The first flight which took off from LGBI Airport witnessed the traditional water saluting. Industry and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, Chief Ministers Media Adviser Hrishikesh Goswami, MLA Bimal Bora and a host of other dignitaries were present at the occasion. Nok Air, which will be flying its sortie between Guwahati and Bangkok, has carefully drafted its sorties to enable passengers to reach the destination at Don Mueang near Bangkok in less than three hours, offering a convenient connection to both business and leisure travellers twice in a week. Chief Minister Sonowal viewed that the introduction of the flight is not just an extension of the airline route but more importantly a futuristic gesture, which will go a long way in reinforcing the cultural and economic ties between Assam and Thailand and strengthening the bilateral relations. Sonowal observed that connectivity has always remained a major bottleneck in the optimum realisation of the growth prospects of the region. Keeping this in view, the Central Government has taken up steps to connect six Southeast Asian destinations from Guwahati under UDAN scheme. On July 1st this year, the first Guwahati-Dhaka flight by Spicejet under International Air Connectivity Scheme was flagged off. The flight marked the roll-out of UDAN-International, pioneered by Assam Government with viability gap funding of Rs 100 crore. In the next few months, flights connecting to Kathmandu, Yangon, Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur will also commence. Last year DrukAir - Royal Bhutan Airlines introduced a Paro-Guwahati-Singapore flight. The Central government has also taken a historic decision to bring 19 destinations in the Northeast including five cities in Assam under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN-2. This initiative would significantly facilitate regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable for the masses. The Union Government aims to turn LGBI Airport into an International airport, connecting Southeast Asia. Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport has undergone numerous expansions and renovations since its establishment in 1958. It handled more than 3.7 million passengers in 2017, an increase of 36 per cent from 2016. It has witnessed an annual traffic increase of over 23 per cent in 2018-19 with a total footfall of 5.7 million passengers and 55,066 aircraft movements in the same period. The existing terminal building at the airport has a maximum handling capacity of 850 arrivals per departure passengers an hour. The work on a new terminal has already made significant progress. This will further boost the growth narrative of the entire region. The new terminal will be the first sustainable terminal of the North East having sewage treatment plant, solar power, rainwater harvesting, solid waste disposal system and energy-efficient lighting. Once completed, this would generate around 3000 direct employment and approximately 20,000 indirect employments. Boosting the State government's efforts, Bangladesh and Bhutan governments have already set up their embassies in Guwahati. The 10 ASEAN nations are also expected to set up their embassies in Guwahati soon. The Act East Policy of the Government of India gives new hope for the growth of the region. The newly found confidence of the people in the state can be witnessed in all spheres of socio-cultural and economic life. As an offshoot of the efforts of the State government, farmers of Assam for the first time could successfully export their agricultural produce to London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other foreign countries.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flags off first Guwahati-Bangkok flight

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday acknowledged the farmers of the country as the backbone of the nation and stated that it is the responsibility of both state and Centre to prioritise development of rural parts of the country.

"It is the duty of both the state and the Centre to give more importance to the rural side of India. Agriculture is the backbone of our country. If not taken care, the country will have to face serious economic consequences. I have always made efforts to provide help to the farming community to get their problems resolved," the Vice-President said.

He made these remarks while addressing an event to mark the 15th Anniversary Celebrations of Rythunestham and presenting the Padmasree Dr IV Subba Rao Rythunestham awards.

Vice-President Naidu also outlined the Government of India`s efforts towards ensuring more income for farmers while praising the contribution of Rythunestham towards agricultural causes.

"It is astonishing to know that more than 20,000 people have switched to agricultural practice merely by attending sessions of Rythunestham. The government has made efforts to make sufficient supply of Urea in the states to let farmers cultivate more. Government is also aiming to increase the schemes for the benefits of farmers."

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Naidu stated he had also acknowledged agriculture as the backbone of the country and the government is always there to provide all-sufficient help to farmers.

Asserting that the Central government is helping farmers in resolving technical issues in the cultivation, the Vice-President said, "The government is helping those who are facing problems in the technical part of the cultivation. Gandhi ji once said that if you love your Nature, Nature will love you. So, if we disrespect nature, it will show us the wrath like floods and extremely high temperature during summers."

The Vice-President also called upon scientists to come up with innovations for the welfare of the agricultural community.

"The scientist should also help up the people residing in the rural area by developing the agricultural machinery," Naidu said.

He also stressed upon the importance of developing infrastructure and fertilization process for advancement in agriculture and said, "There is a vast potential for the production of food in India. If you want to make agricultural liable, you must make changes in the infrastructure and fertilization process. It is also the duty of the Niti Aayog to suggest appropriate changes in the structure of agricultural sectors of the country. Many youngsters are moving back to rural Indian and are helping the farmers".

He also called upon the attendees to spend time in agricultural fields to learn more about the issues at ground level.

"There are two ways to make changes in the lifestyle, which has become mechanical. First, we must adopt ancient methods of cultivation and second, we must spend more time in the fields so that we can know about the real problems of the farmers", he stated.&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday acknowledged the farmers of the country as the backbone of the nation and stated that it is the responsibility of both state and Centre to prioritise development of rural parts of the country.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday acknowledged the farmers of the country as the backbone of the nation and stated that it is the responsibility of both state and Centre to prioritise development of rural parts of the country. "It is the duty of both the state and the Centre to give more importance to the rural side of India. Agriculture is the backbone of our country. If not taken care, the country will have to face serious economic consequences. I have always made efforts to provide help to the farming community to get their problems resolved," the Vice-President said. He made these remarks while addressing an event to mark the 15th Anniversary Celebrations of Rythunestham and presenting the Padmasree Dr IV Subba Rao Rythunestham awards. Vice-President Naidu also outlined the Government of India`s efforts towards ensuring more income for farmers while praising the contribution of Rythunestham towards agricultural causes. "It is astonishing to know that more than 20,000 people have switched to agricultural practice merely by attending sessions of Rythunestham. The government has made efforts to make sufficient supply of Urea in the states to let farmers cultivate more. Government is also aiming to increase the schemes for the benefits of farmers." Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Naidu stated he had also acknowledged agriculture as the backbone of the country and the government is always there to provide all-sufficient help to farmers. Asserting that the Central government is helping farmers in resolving technical issues in the cultivation, the Vice-President said, "The government is helping those who are facing problems in the technical part of the cultivation. Gandhi ji once said that if you love your Nature, Nature will love you. So, if we disrespect nature, it will show us the wrath like floods and extremely high temperature during summers." The Vice-President also called upon scientists to come up with innovations for the welfare of the agricultural community. "The scientist should also help up the people residing in the rural area by developing the agricultural machinery," Naidu said. He also stressed upon the importance of developing infrastructure and fertilization process for advancement in agriculture and said, "There is a vast potential for the production of food in India. If you want to make agricultural liable, you must make changes in the infrastructure and fertilization process. It is also the duty of the Niti Aayog to suggest appropriate changes in the structure of agricultural sectors of the country. Many youngsters are moving back to rural Indian and are helping the farmers". He also called upon the attendees to spend time in agricultural fields to learn more about the issues at ground level. "There are two ways to make changes in the lifestyle, which has become mechanical. First, we must adopt ancient methods of cultivation and second, we must spend more time in the fields so that we can know about the real problems of the farmers", he stated.

Farmers backbone of country, government should priortise development of rural India: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

In the run-up to Assembly polls, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday announced a package worth Rs 4,750 crores for farmers in the state.He waived off penalty and interest on crop loans in three schemes to give relief to farmers.

"In total, we have announced a package of around Rs 5000 crore package for farmers. It will be a big relief to farmers. 10 lakh farmers will get benefits," he told reporters in a press conference here.

The Chief Minister also waived penalty on loans taken from Primary Cooperative Agriculture Societies (PACS) saying that 8.25 lakh farmers have defaulted in repayment of loans.

"In PACS, 13 lakh farmers have taken loans out of which 8.25 lakh have become NPAs. They pay 7 per cent interest in which state government pays 4 per cent and 3 per cent is paid by the central government through a scheme. In case of failure, a 5 per cent penalty is also imposed. We are waiving 5 per cent penalty of farmers," he said.

"3 per cent amount paid by the central government through a scheme and from now on the government will pay 1.5 per cent and the remaining 1.5 per cent will be borne by PACS. Now, full interest and penalty have been waived off and farmers will have to pay the only original loan amount. They should deposit the money and convert their accounts into normal. Farmers will get the benefit of Rs 2,500 crore," Khattar added.&nbsp;

He also announced a package of Rs 1,800 crores to waive penalty on crop loans, which has been taken from District Cooperative Central Banks (DCCB)"85,000 farmers have taken loans from DCCV. 32,000 accounts have become NPAs. Farmers who have taken loans of amount Rs 5 lakhs will now have to pay only 2 per cent interest instead 12-15 per cent," Khattar said.

"Farmers who have taken loans of Rs 5-10 lakhs will pay 5 per cent. Those with loans above Rs 10 lakhs will pay 10 per cent interest. Their penalties have been waived off. The last date of depositing money is November 30. Farmers will be benefitted with Rs 1,800 crores," he added.

The Chief Minister also made an announcement for farmers who have taken loans from the Land Mortgage Bank."1.5 lakh farmers who have taken loans through Land Mortgage Bank, 70,000 have become NPAs. The total amount is Rs 1,400 crores. The principal amount is Rs 700 crores. We have waived off penalty and farmers will only have to 50 per cent of the interest. The rest 50 per cent will be paid by the government. The scheme will cost Rs 450 crore, he said. The Chief Minister also said that the state government has purchased the crop that was not sold.

Taking to Twitter, Haryana BJP president Subhash Barala lauded Khattar for the package.

"The Chief Minister announced the waiver of penalty and interest amount on crop loans of Rs 4,750 crore. Ten lakh farmers of the state will be benefited.Indebted farmers of Primary cooperative, agricultural marketing, District Central Cooperative Banks and Haryana Land Reforms and Development Bank will benefit with this," he said.Haryana Assembly elections are due in October-November this year.

In the run-up to Assembly polls, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday announced a package worth Rs 4,750 crores for farmers in the state.He waived off penalty and interest on crop loans in three schemes to give relief to farmers.

In the run-up to Assembly polls, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday announced a package worth Rs 4,750 crores for farmers in the state.He waived off penalty and interest on crop loans in three schemes to give relief to farmers. "In total, we have announced a package of around Rs 5000 crore package for farmers. It will be a big relief to farmers. 10 lakh farmers will get benefits," he told reporters in a press conference here. The Chief Minister also waived penalty on loans taken from Primary Cooperative Agriculture Societies (PACS) saying that 8.25 lakh farmers have defaulted in repayment of loans. "In PACS, 13 lakh farmers have taken loans out of which 8.25 lakh have become NPAs. They pay 7 per cent interest in which state government pays 4 per cent and 3 per cent is paid by the central government through a scheme. In case of failure, a 5 per cent penalty is also imposed. We are waiving 5 per cent penalty of farmers," he said. "3 per cent amount paid by the central government through a scheme and from now on the government will pay 1.5 per cent and the remaining 1.5 per cent will be borne by PACS. Now, full interest and penalty have been waived off and farmers will have to pay the only original loan amount. They should deposit the money and convert their accounts into normal. Farmers will get the benefit of Rs 2,500 crore," Khattar added. He also announced a package of Rs 1,800 crores to waive penalty on crop loans, which has been taken from District Cooperative Central Banks (DCCB)"85,000 farmers have taken loans from DCCV. 32,000 accounts have become NPAs. Farmers who have taken loans of amount Rs 5 lakhs will now have to pay only 2 per cent interest instead 12-15 per cent," Khattar said. "Farmers who have taken loans of Rs 5-10 lakhs will pay 5 per cent. Those with loans above Rs 10 lakhs will pay 10 per cent interest. Their penalties have been waived off. The last date of depositing money is November 30. Farmers will be benefitted with Rs 1,800 crores," he added. The Chief Minister also made an announcement for farmers who have taken loans from the Land Mortgage Bank."1.5 lakh farmers who have taken loans through Land Mortgage Bank, 70,000 have become NPAs. The total amount is Rs 1,400 crores. The principal amount is Rs 700 crores. We have waived off penalty and farmers will only have to 50 per cent of the interest. The rest 50 per cent will be paid by the government. The scheme will cost Rs 450 crore, he said. The Chief Minister also said that the state government has purchased the crop that was not sold. Taking to Twitter, Haryana BJP president Subhash Barala lauded Khattar for the package. "The Chief Minister announced the waiver of penalty and interest amount on crop loans of Rs 4,750 crore. Ten lakh farmers of the state will be benefited.Indebted farmers of Primary cooperative, agricultural marketing, District Central Cooperative Banks and Haryana Land Reforms and Development Bank will benefit with this," he said.Haryana Assembly elections are due in October-November this year.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announces Rs 4,750 cr package for farmers

Once home to rice farmers and their luscious green paddy fields, this Indonesian village is now a dump for truckloads of rubbish.

From rice fields to trash fields: Indonesian farmers find profit in pollution

Chinese companies have stopped buying US agricultural products, China's Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday (August 06), a blow to US farmers who have already seen their exports slashed by the more than year-old trade war.

US farmers suffer 'body blow' as China slams door on farm purchases

The Karnataka government on Friday announced that it will soon deposit the first instalment of an additional sum of Rs 2,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (prime minister scheme)&nbsp;in the bank accounts of farmers.

"As many as 43.75 lakh declarations of farmers have been sent to Government of India under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. Out of this, Rs 634.50 crore has been credited to 31.72 lakh eligible farmers' accounts directly with Rs 6,000 each. Government of Karnataka will soon release Rs 2,000 as the first instalment to the accounts of these beneficiaries," Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said.

As the drought condition in the state is severe, Yediyurappa directed the officials to take up relief work like drinking water, fodder supply, employment guarantee schemes on a war footing.

To encourage fodder growing in farmers' lands, the Chief Minister suggested officials to purchase fodder grown by farmers for Rs 4,000 per ton, which is currently being purchased at Rs 3,000 per ton.

Since water conservation is the prime need of the hour, and Yediyurappa directed officials to take up check dam construction in a massive way in the state.

Steps have been taken to take up fill water at 10 barrages across Krishna river from Allamatti and Narayanapur Dams to meet water scarcity.

He also suggested officials to streamline food supply under the Anna Bhagya scheme and check irregularities.

Efforts are being made to streamline the administrative machinery and initiate stern action against officials who do not properly respond to public grievances.

The DCs and CEOs are told to visit every taluka at least once in 15 days and attend to public grievances. He directed senior officers including Chief Secretary to visit districts.

Chief Secretary will visit districts once in a month and secretaries will visit districts at least two times in a month and review progress and inspect works, he said.

The Karnataka government on Friday announced that it will soon deposit the first instalment of an additional sum of Rs 2,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (prime minister scheme) in the bank accounts of farmers.

The Karnataka government on Friday announced that it will soon deposit the first instalment of an additional sum of Rs 2,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (prime minister scheme) in the bank accounts of farmers. "As many as 43.75 lakh declarations of farmers have been sent to Government of India under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. Out of this, Rs 634.50 crore has been credited to 31.72 lakh eligible farmers' accounts directly with Rs 6,000 each. Government of Karnataka will soon release Rs 2,000 as the first instalment to the accounts of these beneficiaries," Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said. As the drought condition in the state is severe, Yediyurappa directed the officials to take up relief work like drinking water, fodder supply, employment guarantee schemes on a war footing. To encourage fodder growing in farmers' lands, the Chief Minister suggested officials to purchase fodder grown by farmers for Rs 4,000 per ton, which is currently being purchased at Rs 3,000 per ton. Since water conservation is the prime need of the hour, and Yediyurappa directed officials to take up check dam construction in a massive way in the state. Steps have been taken to take up fill water at 10 barrages across Krishna river from Allamatti and Narayanapur Dams to meet water scarcity. He also suggested officials to streamline food supply under the Anna Bhagya scheme and check irregularities. Efforts are being made to streamline the administrative machinery and initiate stern action against officials who do not properly respond to public grievances. The DCs and CEOs are told to visit every taluka at least once in 15 days and attend to public grievances. He directed senior officers including Chief Secretary to visit districts. Chief Secretary will visit districts once in a month and secretaries will visit districts at least two times in a month and review progress and inspect works, he said.

Karnataka farmers to get additional sum of Rs 2,000 under prime minister scheme

The video was taken in the northern state of Maranhao and shows a man holding a large knife in the rainforest. He holds up the blade to his face before looking towards the person filming him. The video also shows spears amongst trees and bushes in the forest, indicating other tribe members were also present.

Rare Amazon tribe caught on tape in Brazil as loggers move in

Budget, in principle, is a statement of annual accounts with estimates of revenue and expenditure. However, it also offers an opportunity to define new vision and articulate needed reforms.&nbsp;

It is, therefore, appropriate to read the annual Budget as integral to the vision and larger policy framework of the government.

In the case of agriculture, this government’s vision is farmers’ total welfare. The strategy is focused around securing a time-based rise in their income and supplementing it with various social services, including direct income support transfers. This amounts to a paradigm shift in the production-centric agriculture as practised till recently.

The government’s strategy to double farmers’ income by 2022, and sustain continued increases thereafter, entails liberalisation of agriculture.&nbsp;

Crying for attention is the need to treat all sub-sectors of agriculture on a par. Another area is to practise agriculture as a value-based system with the farmer as the entrepreneur at the fulcrum.&nbsp;

Let us test the Budget on these touchstones. In recent years, especially beginning 2016-17, several policy changes have filled positive content in this context. This Budget fits well with this space, and a positive spirit in favour of farmers and farming can be gleaned from the finance minister’s opening propositions.&nbsp;

One of these was, “Reform, Perform and Transform”; the other was “physical connectivity is the lifeblood of our economy”. What in parallel matters more than budgetary allocations is the efficient use of capital investments. The resolution to this lies in upgrading the quality of infrastructure, manpower and the institutional mechanism. The Budget addresses these aspects well.

One structural weakness affecting agriculture is land division and fragmentation. This is addressed by committing 10,000 new Farmers Producers Organisations by 2022. The income tax exemption to FPOs was earlier given in Budget 2018.&nbsp;

Another weakness negatively impacting monetisation is poor road connectivity between production and consumption zones. A study for the year 2012-13 by CIPHET revealed that food loss was as high as Rs 93,000 crore in the country.&nbsp;

The budgetary support for both rural roads and state highways will negotiate this critical gap. The allocation of Rs 80,250 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Phase III &nbsp;that will upgrade the quality of 1,25,000 km of roads, will &nbsp;integrate the agricultural produce with the markets over space and let the farmers gain greater value. &nbsp;

An important aspect of transforming agriculture is to re-mandate it to generate employment and income, and not merely to support food security.&nbsp;

In line with this, there is a reference to shift the status of farmers from Annadata to Urjaadata. This sets the context for the farmers to go beyond conventional crop production and adopt solar or other energy sources, such as bio-methanation, and enrich their income bouquet.

Rural prosperity, notwithstanding emerging structural diversity, is still majorly predicated upon agriculture, whose state can be improved by facilitating it to generate gainful jobs and incomes. &nbsp;

The Budget supports job creation through 100 new clusters of industries based on bamboo, honey and khadi. &nbsp;

In addition to 50,000 jobs for artisans, the farmers will find new market avenues for their primary and secondary produce. ASPIRE is another scheme that targets to skill 75,000 entrepreneurs in the agro-rural industry sector, besides setting up 80 livelihood business incubation centres and 20 technology business incubators. &nbsp;

Both these schemes fall within the ambit of secondary agriculture and directly address the existing lag pertaining to both land and manpower use in the farm sector.&nbsp;

Besides soil, water, a critical input, has emerged as a challenge in sustaining agriculture. The new ministry of Jal Shakti now stands mandated through the Budget to focus on integrated demand and supply side water management at local level. This will bring in water use efficiency in various domains, including agriculture. &nbsp;

On the other front, oil-seed production is rightly supported, whose deficit is now costing the exchequer Rs 70,000 crore annually. The dairy and fishery sectors are well recognised. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana will bridge the gaps in production and marketing infrastructure in the fisheries domain.&nbsp;

The emphasis on promotion of dairy cooperatives will increase the organised milk sector from the present lows of 20 per cent.

The Budget also brings the much-needed focus on post-harvest management by supporting greater coverage under the National Agriculture Market or e-NAM, a mechanism for direct marketing of vegetables, fruits, dairy and fishery products, interlinked warehouse and logistics infrastructure, among others. &nbsp;

Gross capital formation in agriculture bears a direct correlation with growth rates, and the Budget invites attention on private investment. The ground was laid earlier through the new Model Acts on agricultural marketing, contract farming and services, and Gramin agricultural markets.&nbsp;

This trend is buttressed by liberalised foreign direct investment and micro, small and medium enterprise credit up to Rs 1 crore and other triggers for start-ups.&nbsp;

The Budget also targets 20 million rural population, including farmers, under digital education; promoting ease of life and ease of doing agri-business.

The Budget clearly shows a continuity of the vision of the prime minister and a consistency in policy reorientation to improve the lot of the farmers. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-agriculture-s-paradigm-shift-2769243">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Budget, in principle, is a statement of annual accounts with estimates of revenue and expenditure. However, it also offers an opportunity to define new vision and articulate needed reforms.

Budget, in principle, is a statement of annual accounts with estimates of revenue and expenditure. However, it also offers an opportunity to define new vision and articulate needed reforms. It is, therefore, appropriate to read the annual Budget as integral to the vision and larger policy framework of the government. In the case of agriculture, this government’s vision is farmers’ total welfare. The strategy is focused around securing a time-based rise in their income and supplementing it with various social services, including direct income support transfers. This amounts to a paradigm shift in the production-centric agriculture as practised till recently. The government’s strategy to double farmers’ income by 2022, and sustain continued increases thereafter, entails liberalisation of agriculture. Crying for attention is the need to treat all sub-sectors of agriculture on a par. Another area is to practise agriculture as a value-based system with the farmer as the entrepreneur at the fulcrum. Let us test the Budget on these touchstones. In recent years, especially beginning 2016-17, several policy changes have filled positive content in this context. This Budget fits well with this space, and a positive spirit in favour of farmers and farming can be gleaned from the finance minister’s opening propositions. One of these was, “Reform, Perform and Transform”; the other was “physical connectivity is the lifeblood of our economy”. What in parallel matters more than budgetary allocations is the efficient use of capital investments. The resolution to this lies in upgrading the quality of infrastructure, manpower and the institutional mechanism. The Budget addresses these aspects well. One structural weakness affecting agriculture is land division and fragmentation. This is addressed by committing 10,000 new Farmers Producers Organisations by 2022. The income tax exemption to FPOs was earlier given in Budget 2018. Another weakness negatively impacting monetisation is poor road connectivity between production and consumption zones. A study for the year 2012-13 by CIPHET revealed that food loss was as high as Rs 93,000 crore in the country. The budgetary support for both rural roads and state highways will negotiate this critical gap. The allocation of Rs 80,250 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Phase III that will upgrade the quality of 1,25,000 km of roads, will integrate the agricultural produce with the markets over space and let the farmers gain greater value. An important aspect of transforming agriculture is to re-mandate it to generate employment and income, and not merely to support food security. In line with this, there is a reference to shift the status of farmers from Annadata to Urjaadata. This sets the context for the farmers to go beyond conventional crop production and adopt solar or other energy sources, such as bio-methanation, and enrich their income bouquet. Rural prosperity, notwithstanding emerging structural diversity, is still majorly predicated upon agriculture, whose state can be improved by facilitating it to generate gainful jobs and incomes. The Budget supports job creation through 100 new clusters of industries based on bamboo, honey and khadi. In addition to 50,000 jobs for artisans, the farmers will find new market avenues for their primary and secondary produce. ASPIRE is another scheme that targets to skill 75,000 entrepreneurs in the agro-rural industry sector, besides setting up 80 livelihood business incubation centres and 20 technology business incubators. Both these schemes fall within the ambit of secondary agriculture and directly address the existing lag pertaining to both land and manpower use in the farm sector. Besides soil, water, a critical input, has emerged as a challenge in sustaining agriculture. The new ministry of Jal Shakti now stands mandated through the Budget to focus on integrated demand and supply side water management at local level. This will bring in water use efficiency in various domains, including agriculture. On the other front, oil-seed production is rightly supported, whose deficit is now costing the exchequer Rs 70,000 crore annually. The dairy and fishery sectors are well recognised. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana will bridge the gaps in production and marketing infrastructure in the fisheries domain. The emphasis on promotion of dairy cooperatives will increase the organised milk sector from the present lows of 20 per cent. The Budget also brings the much-needed focus on post-harvest management by supporting greater coverage under the National Agriculture Market or e-NAM, a mechanism for direct marketing of vegetables, fruits, dairy and fishery products, interlinked warehouse and logistics infrastructure, among others. Gross capital formation in agriculture bears a direct correlation with growth rates, and the Budget invites attention on private investment. The ground was laid earlier through the new Model Acts on agricultural marketing, contract farming and services, and Gramin agricultural markets. This trend is buttressed by liberalised foreign direct investment and micro, small and medium enterprise credit up to Rs 1 crore and other triggers for start-ups. The Budget also targets 20 million rural population, including farmers, under digital education; promoting ease of life and ease of doing agri-business. The Budget clearly shows a continuity of the vision of the prime minister and a consistency in policy reorientation to improve the lot of the farmers. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In case of agriculture, this government’s vision is farmers’ total welfare

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year.

Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000.

"Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress.

"Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power.

"Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said.

The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister.

Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power.

In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government.

Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana.

"The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. 
 
He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months.

Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said.

"They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked.

To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress.

The BJP on Monday claimed 95 per cent of the farm loan beneficiaries in Madhya Pradesh have got benefits of up to mere Rs 15,000 and not to the tune of Rs 2 lakh as claimed by the ruling Congress. The main opposition party said not a single farmer has got loan waiver benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced under the scheme by the Congress government, which assumed office in December last year. Addressing a press conference here, BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "95 per cent farmers covered under the farm loan waiver scheme have got benefits of only up to Rs 15,000. "Not a single farmer in the state has got the benefit of Rs 2 lakh as announced by the Congress. "Congress president Rahul Gandhi had announced that he would change the CM if he failed to implement the loan waiver scheme within 10 days of coming to power. "Now, the states Congress government itself has accepted in advertisements published in newspapers that the second phase of the loan waiver scheme is being launched now," he said. The state government has failed to implement this scheme even after six months. Now, Rahul should change the chief minister for failing to waive loans within 10 days (as promised earlier), said Mishra, a former minister. Chief Minister Kamal Nath completed six months in office on Monday. In run up to the November Assembly polls, Gandhi had announced to write-off individual agriculture loans of up to Rs 2 lakh within 10 days of his party assuming power. In early May, Nath had said crop loans of over 21 lakh farmers have been cleared so far by his government. Mishra also accused the Nath government of not submitting the complete list of farmers to the Centre for providing them financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per annum under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. There are 80 lakh registered farmers in Madhya Pradesh, but the state government has provided the list of only 43,000 farmers to the Centre for providing assistance under the Kisan Nidhi Yojana. "The state government is anti-farmer and creating hindrances in path of extending benefits to cultivators, the BJP leader said. He said the Congress government has "failed" on every front, including ensuring power supply, curbing crime against women, maintaining law and order and implementing loan waiver, in the last six months. Instead, the Nath administration is blaming the opposition for the state's problems, he said. "They are blaming the opposition for power cuts, crime and other issues. They are in the government, who is stopping them from taking action? Mishra asked. To a question on the stability of the Nath government, being supported by the MLAs of the SP, the BSP and some independent lawmakers, the BJP leader said it will fall on its own.

Madhya Pradesh farmers got benefits of up to Rs 15,000, not Rs 2 lakh: BJP

On his first day in office, the Modi government decided to extend the PM-Kisan scheme to all farmers. But, some challenges still remain. Watch this report from Gravitas.

Gravitas: Modi 2.0: Big Moves For Farmers On Day One

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms.

Once such case came to the fore on Saturday after smoke emanating from stubble burning choked the commuters on the National Highway 5 near Shambhu barrier here.

In the fire, the wheat crop spread over hundreds of acres of land was reduced to ashes.

The threat of air pollution looms large over the national capital region as the harvest season has kicked in. As per the latest AQI data, the air quality of Delhi's Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 at 57 and 203, respectively.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Following the directions of the Supreme Court last year, the Centre had approved a large sum of money for modern tools and technology to combat the problem of stubble burning.

A report issued by Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) in October last year, however, said poor farmers continue to practice stubble burning despite a ban as they have no other alternative, owing to shortage and high-prices of Happy Seeder Machines, a tractor-mounted machine that cuts and lifts stubble and straw.&nbsp;

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms.

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms. Once such case came to the fore on Saturday after smoke emanating from stubble burning choked the commuters on the National Highway 5 near Shambhu barrier here. In the fire, the wheat crop spread over hundreds of acres of land was reduced to ashes. The threat of air pollution looms large over the national capital region as the harvest season has kicked in. As per the latest AQI data, the air quality of Delhi's Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 at 57 and 203, respectively. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Following the directions of the Supreme Court last year, the Centre had approved a large sum of money for modern tools and technology to combat the problem of stubble burning. A report issued by Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) in October last year, however, said poor farmers continue to practice stubble burning despite a ban as they have no other alternative, owing to shortage and high-prices of Happy Seeder Machines, a tractor-mounted machine that cuts and lifts stubble and straw.

Despite ban, farmers continue to burn stubble in Punjab

Food and beverages giant PepsiCo Friday offered to settle lawsuits against four farmers whom it had dragged to court for "illegally" growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company.&nbsp;

Nine farmers from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts have been sued by the firm for allegedly growing a variety of potatoes for which it has claimed Plant Variety Protection (PVP) rights.

During a hearing in the commercial court here Friday, the firm offered to settle the dispute if the farmers gave an undertaking to purchase this specific variety of seeds from the company and thereafter sell the potato produce to it.

Senior counsel Anand Yagnik, who appeared for the four farmers of Sabarkantha district, told the court he would discuss the settlement proposal with the farmers and inform the court about the outcome in the next hearing.

Commercial Court Judge M C Tyagi Friday extended its previous order restricting the farmers from using the patented seeds till the next hearing, which was kept for June 12.

The multinational giant has sought damages of Rs 1 crore from each of the four farmers of Sabarkantha in its suit at the commercial court, and Rs 20 lakh from each of the farmers sued at a district court in Modasa town of Arvalli district.

In a statement, PepsiCo said it was "compelled" to take the legal path to safeguard the interests of farmers associated with the firm.&nbsp;

"PepsiCo India has proposed to amicably settle with people who were unlawfully using seeds of its registered variety. PepsiCo has also proposed that they may become part of its collaborative potato farming program.&nbsp;

"This program gives them access to higher yields, enhanced quality, training in best-in-class practices and better prices," the statement read.

"In case, they do not wish to join this program, they can simply sign an agreement and grow other available varieties of potatoes. It is significant to note that the company's collaborative potato farming program is best in class and is built on strong backward and forward linkages that improve livelihoods by using protected seeds," it said.

"The company was compelled to take the judicial recourse as a last resort to safeguard the larger interest of thousands of farmers who are engaged with its collaborative potato farming program. PepsiCo India remains deeply committed to resolving the matter and ensuring adoption of best farming practices," the statement said.

Two days ago, over 190 activists came out in support of these farmers and requested the Union government to ask the multinational giant to withdraw its "false" cases against the Gujarat farmers.

In a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture, 194 signatories sought financial aid and protection of rights of farmers who have been sued for growing and selling the potato variety called FC-5 potato, for which PepsiCo India Holdings claimed to have obtained "exclusive rights in the country in 2016".&nbsp;

Food and beverages giant PepsiCo Friday offered to settle lawsuits against four farmers whom it had dragged to court for "illegally" growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company.

Food and beverages giant PepsiCo Friday offered to settle lawsuits against four farmers whom it had dragged to court for "illegally" growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company. Nine farmers from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts have been sued by the firm for allegedly growing a variety of potatoes for which it has claimed Plant Variety Protection (PVP) rights. During a hearing in the commercial court here Friday, the firm offered to settle the dispute if the farmers gave an undertaking to purchase this specific variety of seeds from the company and thereafter sell the potato produce to it. Senior counsel Anand Yagnik, who appeared for the four farmers of Sabarkantha district, told the court he would discuss the settlement proposal with the farmers and inform the court about the outcome in the next hearing. Commercial Court Judge M C Tyagi Friday extended its previous order restricting the farmers from using the patented seeds till the next hearing, which was kept for June 12. The multinational giant has sought damages of Rs 1 crore from each of the four farmers of Sabarkantha in its suit at the commercial court, and Rs 20 lakh from each of the farmers sued at a district court in Modasa town of Arvalli district. In a statement, PepsiCo said it was "compelled" to take the legal path to safeguard the interests of farmers associated with the firm. "PepsiCo India has proposed to amicably settle with people who were unlawfully using seeds of its registered variety. PepsiCo has also proposed that they may become part of its collaborative potato farming program. "This program gives them access to higher yields, enhanced quality, training in best-in-class practices and better prices," the statement read. "In case, they do not wish to join this program, they can simply sign an agreement and grow other available varieties of potatoes. It is significant to note that the company's collaborative potato farming program is best in class and is built on strong backward and forward linkages that improve livelihoods by using protected seeds," it said. "The company was compelled to take the judicial recourse as a last resort to safeguard the larger interest of thousands of farmers who are engaged with its collaborative potato farming program. PepsiCo India remains deeply committed to resolving the matter and ensuring adoption of best farming practices," the statement said. Two days ago, over 190 activists came out in support of these farmers and requested the Union government to ask the multinational giant to withdraw its "false" cases against the Gujarat farmers. In a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture, 194 signatories sought financial aid and protection of rights of farmers who have been sued for growing and selling the potato variety called FC-5 potato, for which PepsiCo India Holdings claimed to have obtained "exclusive rights in the country in 2016".

PepsiCo proposes settlement to Gujarat potato farmers sued by it

Over 190 activists Wednesday requested the Union government to ask food and beverages giant PepsiCo India to withdraw its "false" cases against Gujarat farmers for allegedly illegally growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company.

Nine farmers from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts have been dragged to court by PepsiCo for allegedly growing a variety of potatoes for which it has claimed Plant Variety Protection (PVP) rights.

The multinational giant has sought damages of Rs. 1 crore from each of four farmers in its suit at a court in Ahmedabad, and Rs. 20 lakh from each of the farmers sued at a district court in Modasa, activists said at a press conference.

The matter in Ahmedabad court will come up for hearing on April 26, they said.

The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority Act, 2011 exempts farmers from PVP rights, said Kapil Shah, who heads Jatan, an organisation dedicated to organic farming.

"It is for the state government to ensure that farmers are not harassed. The company should immediately withdraw the case which is untenable," said Sagar Rabari of the Gujarat Khedut Samaj.

In a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture, 194 signatories have sought financial aid and protection of rights of farmers who have been sued for growing and selling a potato variety called FC-5 potato, for which PepsiCo India Holdings claimed to have obtained "exclusive rights in the country in 2016".

Reached for its reaction, a company spokesperson said that "given the issue is sub-judice, it would not be proper to offer detailed comments".

Over 190 activists Wednesday requested the Union government to ask food and beverages giant PepsiCo India to withdraw its "false" cases against Gujarat farmers for allegedly illegally growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company.

Over 190 activists Wednesday requested the Union government to ask food and beverages giant PepsiCo India to withdraw its "false" cases against Gujarat farmers for allegedly illegally growing a variety of potatoes "registered" by the company. Nine farmers from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts have been dragged to court by PepsiCo for allegedly growing a variety of potatoes for which it has claimed Plant Variety Protection (PVP) rights. The multinational giant has sought damages of Rs. 1 crore from each of four farmers in its suit at a court in Ahmedabad, and Rs. 20 lakh from each of the farmers sued at a district court in Modasa, activists said at a press conference. The matter in Ahmedabad court will come up for hearing on April 26, they said. The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority Act, 2011 exempts farmers from PVP rights, said Kapil Shah, who heads Jatan, an organisation dedicated to organic farming. "It is for the state government to ensure that farmers are not harassed. The company should immediately withdraw the case which is untenable," said Sagar Rabari of the Gujarat Khedut Samaj. In a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture, 194 signatories have sought financial aid and protection of rights of farmers who have been sued for growing and selling a potato variety called FC-5 potato, for which PepsiCo India Holdings claimed to have obtained "exclusive rights in the country in 2016". Reached for its reaction, a company spokesperson said that "given the issue is sub-judice, it would not be proper to offer detailed comments".

Activists seek Centre's intervention in PepsiCo's case against farmers

Visitors flock to giant snow maze in Canada's Manitoba

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year.

In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN.

“These categories of agricultural workers are at the bottom of the agriculture economy pyramid and they deserve special care and attention. Rural prosperity and reduction in poverty cannot be achieved without an adequate focus on these weaker sections of the populace,” the letter read.

He also cited his state’s flagship KALIA scheme and wrote, “Under KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme of State Government not only small and marginal farmers but landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households are also covered. Under KALIA scheme annual financial assistance of Rs. 10,00 is envisaged for every small and marginal farmer.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be formally launching the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme from Gorakhpur on Sunday.

Under the scheme, the central government will on the same day make the first instalment of Rs 2,000 in the bank account of beneficiary farmers. About one crore farmers are expected to receive the first instalment on Sunday.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year. In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase assistance under PM-Kisan to Rs 10,000 from Rs 6,000 per year. In a letter written to the Prime Minister, Patnaik also appealed for the inclusion of landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households under the Central sector Scheme PM-KISAN. “These categories of agricultural workers are at the bottom of the agriculture economy pyramid and they deserve special care and attention. Rural prosperity and reduction in poverty cannot be achieved without an adequate focus on these weaker sections of the populace,” the letter read. He also cited his state’s flagship KALIA scheme and wrote, “Under KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme of State Government not only small and marginal farmers but landless labourers, sharecroppers and vulnerable agricultural households are also covered. Under KALIA scheme annual financial assistance of Rs. 10,00 is envisaged for every small and marginal farmer.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be formally launching the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme from Gorakhpur on Sunday. Under the scheme, the central government will on the same day make the first instalment of Rs 2,000 in the bank account of beneficiary farmers. About one crore farmers are expected to receive the first instalment on Sunday.

Naveen Patnaik urges PM Modi to increase PM-KISAN aid to Rs 10,000

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-small-and-marginal-farmers-are-caught-in-a-double-bind-17791">the country's small and marginal farmers</a> income support of Rs 6,000 a year.&nbsp;

Modi said in Gorakhpur that the first installment of the money — there will be three a year of Rs 2,000 each — had been paid into the accounts of 1.01 crore farmers. "Today is a historic day," Modi said.&nbsp;

He added that farmers who had not got the first payment would get it in the coming days.&nbsp;

He added added that "for us also loan waivers would have been easy and convenient" but "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/loan-waiver-not-a-solution-to-farm-distress-niti-aayog-185407">we cannot commit such a crime</a>". The loan waivers have been given by the opposition Congress under Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

"This is your money and no one will be able to take it from you," Modi told the country's farmers.&nbsp;He said the scheme had been made foolproof so that no one can snatch away their rights and he added that middlemen will play no role in the scheme.&nbsp;

Modi warned "state governments who are looking to play politics with PM Kisan Yojna" that "if you indulge in this, then curse of farmers will destroy your politics".&nbsp;

To the farmers, he appealed that they not be "misled by anyone".&nbsp;

And that "Mahamilavti logon ke moonh utre huye thhe Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi".&nbsp;

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PM:Warn those state govts who are looking to play politics with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMKisan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMKisan</a> Yojna, if you indulge in this then curse of farmers will destroy your politics.I appeal to farmers, don't be misled by anyone. 'Mahamilavti' logon ke moonh utre huye the Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi <a href="https://t.co/zIyHCjj3Qb">pic.twitter.com/zIyHCjj3Qb</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1099571635450007552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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UP CM Yogi Adityanath at launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Gorakhpur: We would like to wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi as after gaining respect of the world as 'champion of earth', he was honoured with Seoul peace prize last week. <a href="https://t.co/xSxleAw4by">pic.twitter.com/xSxleAw4by</a>
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The PM Kisan Yojna was announced in this year's interim budget and envisions the payment of the Rs 6,000 a year to 12 crore farmers who own less than 5 acres of land. The scheme&nbsp;is expected to cost the exchequer Rs 75,000 crore a year.&nbsp;

The aid was a response to the massive levels of farmer distress reported from the country's rural areas.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give the country's small and marginal farmers income support of Rs 6,000 a year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give the country's small and marginal farmers income support of Rs 6,000 a year. Modi said in Gorakhpur that the first installment of the money — there will be three a year of Rs 2,000 each — had been paid into the accounts of 1.01 crore farmers. "Today is a historic day," Modi said. He added that farmers who had not got the first payment would get it in the coming days. He added added that "for us also loan waivers would have been easy and convenient" but "we cannot commit such a crime". The loan waivers have been given by the opposition Congress under Rahul Gandhi. "This is your money and no one will be able to take it from you," Modi told the country's farmers. He said the scheme had been made foolproof so that no one can snatch away their rights and he added that middlemen will play no role in the scheme. Modi warned "state governments who are looking to play politics with PM Kisan Yojna" that "if you indulge in this, then curse of farmers will destroy your politics". To the farmers, he appealed that they not be "misled by anyone". And that "Mahamilavti logon ke moonh utre huye thhe Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi". PM:Warn those state govts who are looking to play politics with #PMKisan Yojna, if you indulge in this then curse of farmers will destroy your politics.I appeal to farmers, don't be misled by anyone. 'Mahamilavti' logon ke moonh utre huye the Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi pic.twitter.com/zIyHCjj3Qb — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 24, 2019 × UP CM Yogi Adityanath at launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Gorakhpur: We would like to wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi as after gaining respect of the world as 'champion of earth', he was honoured with Seoul peace prize last week. pic.twitter.com/xSxleAw4by — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 24, 2019 × The PM Kisan Yojna was announced in this year's interim budget and envisions the payment of the Rs 6,000 a year to 12 crore farmers who own less than 5 acres of land. The scheme is expected to cost the exchequer Rs 75,000 crore a year. The aid was a response to the massive levels of farmer distress reported from the country's rural areas.

Modi launches PM Kisan Yojna, says first installment of Rs 2,000 paid to 1.01 crore farmers

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

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

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

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

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