External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reiterated the Indian government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of farmers, acknowledging the complexity of the issue during an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Spain. He emphasized that discussions on the matter are ongoing in both the Cabinet and Parliament, with the goal of finding lasting solutions.
Jaishankar highlighted that the recent increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for key rabi crops demonstrates the government’s dedication to supporting the agricultural sector. He noted, however, that the issue is often politicized, but reassured that the government remains focused on resolving it through constructive dialogue.
“Farmers’ issues are multifaceted and complex, but I can assure you that we are actively discussing how to support them in the Cabinet and Parliament,” Jaishankar said during his address. The government approved an MSP hike in October for the 2025-26 marketing season, ranging from 2.4% to 7%, which will be implemented from April this year.
The minister’s remarks come amid ongoing protests led by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike since November 26, demanding the fulfillment of promises made during the 2021 farmers’ protests. Dallewal, the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, is calling for a legal guarantee for MSP. His health has been deteriorating, raising concerns within the farmer community.
Punjab’s health minister, Balbir Singh, has also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and engage in talks with Dallewal, as the Supreme Court-appointed committee continues to monitor his condition.
