The opposition in Lok Sabha took a firm stand against the government’s approach to agriculture, accusing it of ignoring farmers’ interests in the Union Budget. SP MP Dharmendra Yadav highlighted that while the government waived off ₹16 lakh crore in industrial loans, it refused to grant loan waivers to struggling farmers, citing financial constraints.
Initiating the debate on demands for grants for the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry, Yadav pointed out that only 2.7% of the total Budget had been allocated to the sector, calling it highly disappointing. He alleged that despite frequent promises, the government harbors an anti-farmer stance.
Congress MP Jai Prakash criticized the treatment of protesting farmers, likening it to the British era, and vowed strong opposition to any reintroduction of controversial farm laws. DMK MP TM Selvaganapathi and Congress’ Charanjit Singh Channi expressed alarm over reports of duty-free US imports, fearing it would undercut Indian farmers and reverse policies aimed at self-reliance in food production.
As the debate continues, the opposition demands a clear stance from the government on import policies and financial support for farmers, pressing for immediate action to safeguard their livelihoods.