Mysuru witnessed a powerful display of solidarity among farmers on Sunday as a massive tractor rally rolled through the city in support of the ongoing farmers’ agitation. The protest, spearheaded by the non-political Samyukta Kisan Morcha and its leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, aimed to demand a law guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce and the waiver of farm loans.
The rally began at APMC Circle and proceeded toward Kadakola, culminating near the toll booth on the Mysuru-Nanjangud National Highway. This large-scale demonstration caused temporary traffic disruptions but successfully drew attention to the farmers’ pressing demands.
The Core Demands: MSP Law and Loan Waiver
Farmers across the country have long struggled with fluctuating market prices that often leave them in dire financial straits. A legally binding MSP ensures fair remuneration, providing much-needed stability to the agricultural sector. Many farmers are trapped in cycles of debt, often exacerbated by unpredictable weather conditions and volatile market trends. Loan waivers are seen as a vital relief measure to alleviate financial stress.
The rally’s organization was led by the State Federation of Farmers’ Association and the State Sugarcane Farmers’ Association under the guidance of prominent farmers’ leader Kurubur Shanthakumar. As the South India convenor of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, Shanthakumar emphasized the symbolic significance of the protest.
“While the nation celebrates Republic Day, farmers are still fighting for their basic rights,” said Shanthakumar. He reiterated that the agitation—which has seen leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal on hunger strike for two months—is far from over. Although Dallewal has temporarily paused his strike for medical treatment, the farmers’ determination remains steadfast.
Farmer Agitation against the Centre
The rally in Mysuru was not an isolated event. Similar demonstrations have been conducted in Chamarajanagar, Shivamogga, Dharwad, Belagavi, Kalburgi, Raichur, and Hassan. These tractor rallies represent a unified voice of dissent, bringing together farmers from different parts of Karnataka. Adding momentum to this state-wide effort, a contingent of Karnataka farmers is preparing to travel to the national capital in early February. Their participation in the ongoing agitation near the Punjab-Haryana border underscores the movement’s pan-India significance.
At the heart of the farmers’ demands lies the implementation of the M.S. Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations. Established to address the challenges facing Indian agriculture, the commission proposed measures to ensure income security for farmers, including a scientifically calculated MSP that covers the cost of production and guarantees a 50% profit margin. Despite being widely recognized as a roadmap for agricultural reform, successive governments have failed to implement these recommendations comprehensively. This neglect has fueled widespread discontent among farmers, culminating in nationwide protests.
The Mysuru tractor rally served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity of India’s farming community. Kurubur Shanthakumar’s words reflected the collective resolve: “The struggle will continue until the government meets our demands. We will not rest until the MSP law is enacted and farmers’ welfare is prioritized.”
Disruptions and Public Support
While the rally caused temporary inconveniences to commuters on the Mysuru-Nanjangud National Highway, public sentiment largely leaned toward supporting the farmers. Observers noted the peaceful yet impactful nature of the demonstration, which highlighted the urgency of the farmers’ plight without resorting to violence.
Local residents and civil society groups also expressed solidarity with the farmers, acknowledging their critical role in sustaining the nation’s food security. Many called for immediate government intervention to address their legitimate grievances. As the agitation gathers momentum, all eyes are on the central government’s response. Will it heed the farmers’ demands and implement policies that ensure their welfare? Or will the protests escalate further, intensifying the ongoing confrontation?
The upcoming visit of Karnataka’s farmers to the national capital could prove to be a pivotal moment in the movement. Their participation in larger protests near the Punjab-Haryana border will likely amplify the call for action, pressuring policymakers to address the farmers’ issues comprehensively. The tractor rally in Mysuru and similar demonstrations across Karnataka highlight the resilience and determination of India’s farmers. Their demands for a legally guaranteed MSP and loan waivers are not just economic necessities but moral imperatives for a country that prides itself on its agrarian heritage.
As the farmers’ struggle continues, it serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the backbone of India’s economy. The government’s response will not only shape the future of Indian agriculture but also reflect its commitment to social justice and equity.