In a bid to resolve tensions with protesting farmers, India has announced guaranteed support prices for pulses, corn, and cotton, according to Trade Minister Piyush Goyal.

The move comes after week-long clashes between security forces and farmers, who have been kept out of the capital amidst ongoing demonstrations. Tear gas and barricades have been employed to deter the farmers, who wield significant political influence, especially with a general election looming ahead, scheduled for May, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third consecutive term.

The announcement follows extensive negotiations with farmers’ unions, who have been demanding minimum prices for their agricultural produce. Despite being halted around 200 km (125 miles) from New Delhi, the farmers have remained steadfast in their demands. The government’s proposal includes offering five-year contracts between co-operative societies endorsed by the government and farmers willing to diversify their crops, specifically to grow toor dal, urad dal, masoor dal, and corn, with the assurance of purchasing such crops at minimum support prices.

India’s initiative aims to address the grievances of farmers and alleviate the ongoing protests, which have intensified in recent weeks.

Source: Reuters