PUNJAB AGRICULTURE MINISTER EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT OVER UNION BUDGET, CITES SYSTEMIC NEGLECT OF STATE AND FARMERS

PUNJAB AGRICULTURE MINISTER EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT OVER UNION BUDGET, CITES SYSTEMIC NEGLECT OF STATE AND FARMERS

*• Highlights Lack of Special Package for Flood-Hit Punjab*

*• Flags Critical Issues of Rising Input Costs, Unfulfilled MSP Promises, and Reduced Crop Insurance Budget*

*• Accuses Centre of Persistent Discrimination, Demands Fair Share and Focus on Agricultural Crisis*

Chandigarh, February 1:

Punjab’s Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, expressed profound disappointment and concern over the Union Budget, stating it continues the trend of neglecting Punjab and the critical needs of its farmers.

Responding to queries on the union budget, S. Khudian stated, “The true impact will be known when the detailed provisions are unveiled. However, I have a strong apprehension that BJP-led Central government has done nothing for Punjab and its farmers.” He emphasized that Punjab faces persistent discrimination, even after enduring massive flood damage for which the requested Central relief package was never granted.

Elaborating on the agricultural crisis, the Minister pointed out that while the country’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, the budget failed to address the sector’s core challenges. “The cost of every input is skyrocketing—diesel, fertilizers, pesticides—but the budget offered no solace. There was hope for a dedicated allocation or a higher MSP for all crops, but that hasn’t happened,” he said.

He specifically criticized the reduction in the budget for the Crop Insurance Scheme and the lack of significant announcements on Minimum Support Price (MSP). “Instead of increasing support, they are cutting it. At a time when farmers are in distress, the central government has stepped back,” S. Khudian stated.

Drawing a sharp contrast, the Minister highlighted the Punjab Government’s proactive measures. “Where the Centre failed, the Punjab Government acted. For the farmers affected by floods, our government provided compensation of ₹20,000 per acre promptly,” he said.

The Agriculture Minister S. Khudian also linked the economic neglect to national security concerns, noting, “Punjab contributes massively to the nation’s food security and its youth guard the borders. Yet, the state’s rightful due is always ignored.”

“Previous governments with cosy ties with the Centre could have sought debt waivers but didn’t, as they wanted to keep Punjab subdued. We are facing this situation head-on and will do everything possible to put Punjab back on the path to progress,” he asserted.

“The need of the hour was for the Central Government to come forward with a substantial package to address the deepening crisis in agriculture and revive the rural economy. Unfortunately, this budget has only added to the difficulties and complexities faced by our farmers,” said S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian.