Modi Affirms Commitment to Farmer Welfare Amidst Protests: A Prelude to Elections
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his government's unwavering dedication to the welfare of farmers on Thursday, emphasizing a vision to empower them as entrepreneurs and exporters. His remarks come amidst escalating protests by thousands of farmers, primarily from Punjab, seeking higher prices for their agricultural produce.
The protests, part of the 'Delhi Chalo' campaign, have seen farmers attempting to march to the capital for over a week. However, encounters with police forces, including the use of tear gas and water cannons, have halted their progress.
While offering condolences for a protester's death, farmers' leaders announced plans for additional nationwide demonstrations, marking Friday as a Black Day and scheduling a tractor rally for February 26.
Modi's administration, facing pressure close to upcoming elections, has underscored its commitment to farmers' welfare, exemplified by a recent decision to increase the floor price for sugarcane. Despite the move's limited direct impact on protesting farmers, Modi emphasized his government's broader focus on enhancing the lives of small-scale farmers.
Amidst the turmoil, Modi's party seeks to prevent the protests from spreading to other states, recognizing the influential role of farmers in Indian politics. Previous protests forced Modi to repeal contentious farm reform laws, highlighting the political significance of farmers' discontent.
As tensions persist at protest sites, Modi's reaffirmation of support for farmers underscores the delicate balance between governance and public sentiment, particularly in the lead-up to crucial elections.
