New Delhi: Farmers in Bhopal had been agitating for some time over their demands. The protest ended after the government finally accepted their demands, a move seen as a successful instance of diplomatic engagement with the farming community. The state government has assured them that it will increase the procurement of moong (green gram) at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), immediately scrap the e-token system for fertiliser distribution, and take positive action on other demands.
Following these assurances from the government, the farmers protesting under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha have announced the end of their agitation. The protest was primarily rooted in the issue of the MSP for moong, regarding which the Mohan Yadav government has now provided assurances.
Protest Over Moong Procurement
Farmers in Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, had been continuously protesting against the government regarding the MSP for moong. The protesting farmers argued that while there had been record production this year, the government was procuring only limited quantities, forcing them to sell their crops in the open market at lower prices.
Another major demand concerned the e-token system implemented for fertiliser distribution. Farmers alleged that this system prevented them from obtaining adequate fertiliser supplies, and the resulting shortage was adversely affecting their crops. Nineteen farmer organisations had launched this agitation under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha to press for these demands.
Farmers Embark on a Foot March (July 27)
More than 2,000 protesters participated in the ‘Kisan Kranti Padyatra’ (Farmers’ Revolution Foot March) that originated in Narmadapuram, Madhya Pradesh. The farmers moved forward carrying rations, bedding, and cooking supplies in their tractor-trolleys. Although the state police had set up barricades at various points to halt them, the farmers continued their march by removing the barriers. This display of determination ensured that the farmers’ grievances reached the state government.
Attempt to March Towards the CM’s Residence
The swelling number of farmers in Bhopal began to disrupt normal life. Having arrived with the intention of staging an indefinite protest, the farmers were cooking meals—specifically dal-baati—right on the streets to sustain themselves. An attempt was made to march towards the Chief Minister’s residence. Police tried to stop the farmers on the route leading to the residence, resulting in a scuffle between the two sides.
Subsequently, the government invited representatives of the farmers’ organisations for talks. A consensus was reached between the farmers and the government following extensive discussions. The government assured that moong (green gram) procurement would be increased so that more farmers could benefit from the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
