The land acquisition process for a developmental project in Ujjain had faced opposition by the local farmers, forcing the state government to suspend the move: Reports
BHOPAL: With two major stirs against land acquisition for several greenfield projects in Madhya Pradesh petering out, chief minister Mohan Yadav has launched an exercise to project a pro-farmer image of him by deciding to address the people on social media, the first such move since he assumed office in December 2023, late on Friday night to highlight various welfare measures undertaken by him for the benefit of those who have chosen agriculture their livelihood.
The state government ‘suddenly’ announced on Friday afternoon that the chief minister would give ‘a special message to the state’ on social media later in the evening at nine pm, leaving everybody including scribes surprised and triggering all kinds of speculations.
Mr. Yadav however confined his entire address to the people to the development of the farmers in the state by highlighting steps taken by his government in the direction.
The state had in the recent past witnessed two major stirs by the farmers, leaving the farmers’ wing of the ruling BJP as well as the party leadership worried over the prospect of erosion of the base of the party among the farmers, the major vote bank of the party.
The land acquisition process for a developmental project in Ujjain had faced opposition by the local farmers, forcing the state government to suspend the move.
Incidentally, Ujjain is the hometown of the chief minister.
Similarly, the Ken-Betwa river-interlinking project also sparked stir by the local farmers against the land acquisition.
However, the agitation was later called off following assurance given by the local administration to address their grievances.
The chief minister, in his address, highlighted how a series of welfare measures were undertaken by his government to increase the income of the farmers.
He informed that the state government has decided to hike the land price four-fold for acquisition for various government projects.
He also announced that the wheat procurement policy of his government will cover all sections of wheat growers including big and middle level farmers.
Mr. Yadav informed that the Centre has increased wheat procurement from Madhya Pradesh from 75 lakh tons to 100 lakh tons in the current season.
He also underlined his government’s efforts to boost milk production in the state to increase farmers’ income.
“The government stands with the farmers in every situation, which is why several farmer-friendly historic decisions are being taken. This year has been dedicated as the ‘Year of Farmers’ Welfare’ with a strong commitment towards farmers’ welfare”, he said.
The BJP has cultivated a strong base among the farmers in Madhya Pradesh over the last two decades.
