Anurag Thakur Discusses Bringing Back Navy Veterans in Talks with Farmers

Mr. Thakur recently addressed the protesting farmers, urging them to continue their dialogue with the government. He emphasized the importance of peaceful dialogue and discouraged violence and arson during the protests.

Mr. Thakur referred to recent successful instances where dialogue had led to positive outcomes, such as the safe return of Indian Navy veterans and the evacuation of Indians during the Ukraine war and the COVID-19 pandemic. The minister expressed disappointment over farmers’ representatives walking away from discussions with union ministers.

He highlighted that new demands from the farmers, such as opposing participation in the World Trade Organization and scrapping free trade agreements, were prolonging the discussions. The farmers also raised concerns about stubble burning, the Electricity (Amendment) bill, and their exclusion from the purview of certain regulations.

The minister proposed forming a committee and involving the agriculture minister in the discussions to address these issues. Mr. Thakur urged protestors to refrain from violence, emphasizing that it causes harm to the nation and inconveniences the public.

He defended the efforts of the Narendra Modi government in addressing agricultural concerns, noting an increase in crop procurement and the allocation of funds for agriculture in the budget. Additionally, he criticized the Congress party, particularly Rahul Gandhi, for failing to address the demands of farmers during their time in power.

In response to critics pointing out the timing of the farmers’ protest in light of recent recognitions for farmer leaders, Mr. Thakur reiterated the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and the importance of continued dialogue. He expressed confidence in the government’s efforts towards fulfilling the demands of the protesting farmers.