Urgent Call for Relief: Punjab Farmers' Crisis Highlighted in Parliament Debate

A Parliament debate raised the distress of Punjab farmers, with calls for a Rs 50,000 crore special package. The discussion highlighted 750 farmer deaths during protests, demand for compensation, and proposed incentives to curb stubble burning. Key issues include financial aid, MSP increase, and import restrictions.

During a Parliamentary debate, Congress MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring highlighted the severe distress faced by Punjab's farmers. He called for a special Rs 50,000 crore package, citing the deaths of 750 farmers during the protests against previously repealed agriculture laws.

Warring urged the government to compensate the victims' families and suggested providing Rs 5,000 incentives to farmers to address stubble burning and its consequent air pollution. Additional concerns included delays in flood relief due to political tensions and insufficient disaster relief funds.

Other members, across party lines, recommended increasing the Minimum Support Price, limiting imports that could financial harm local farmers, and boosting insurance coverage. The debate underscored the pressing financial and policy needs of India's agricultural sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)