Nagpur: The overwhelming response to the Gujarat model for compensating cotton growers prompted the activists in Vidarbha to push for similar model to be implemented in the region. Gujarat government has recently announced a bonus of Rs 650 per quintal on the produce sold through Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) centres.
The also pulled a trigger to raise voice in fresh perspective. Kishor Tiwari, an activist now appointed director of state government’s Vasantrao Naik Shetkari Swavlamban Mission (VNSSM) had already dashed a letter to the chief minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking the bonus.
Lamenting the condition of farmers in the region Tiwari reportedly said that the ryots have been facing crop failure for the last 2 years. Added to it even the market rates slashed further below minimum support price.
Gold Rate
Thursday 20 March 2025
He viewed that Maharashtra Cotton Growers Federation was also a purchasing agent of CCI, the benefit could be given to a large section of farmers. The federation has set up procurement centres throughout the state.
A top rung member from Shetkari Sanghatna also advocated for better compensation to Vidarbha farmers as the region is worse affected than Gujarat where there are better irrigation facilities and no crop failure. He also pointed out that cotton bonus which existed in the state earlier was discontinued in 1997. “This decision badly affected cotton farmers most of whom were dragged towards committing suicide,” he said.
