Chandigarh, Feb 19 (UNI) In a recent development, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced the government's proposal for a five-year agreement with cooperative societies NCCF (National Consumer Cooperative Federation of India Limited) and NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) for the procurement of pulses at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Additionally, the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) has expressed its intention to enter into a similar five-year agreement with farmers for the purchase of cotton at the MSP.

Following discussions with central ministers, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann highlighted the challenges faced by cotton farmers in the region, particularly due to issues like the white fly and the pink ball.

He emphasised the need for an MSP guarantee to instill confidence among farmers cultivating soft cotton crops. Mann also mentioned the willingness of Punjab farmers to shift from paddy to pulses as an alternate crop, provided the Centre ensures MSP and a fair return for the produce.

Farmers have responded by expressing their intent to deliberate on the proposals put forth by Union Ministers on February 19 and 20.

However, they issued a warning that if no satisfactory resolution is reached, they will stage a march to Delhi on February 21.

This development underscores the ongoing dialogue between the government and farmers, addressing concerns related to MSP and crop procurement, with a focus on ensuring the welfare of agricultural communities.

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