By Sapna 
The ongoing farmer protests in India have reignited in 2024, with thousands of farmers rallying near Delhi, demanding legal guarantees for Minimum Support Prices (MSP) on crops and other reforms. The movement, which began in 2020 and saw a major victory in 2021 with the repeal of three controversial farm laws, has returned due to unresolved issues.
Key Demands and Developments
Farmers, primarily from Punjab and Haryana, are pressing for a broader MSP framework covering more crops. They also seek relief from mounting debts and better safeguards against market fluctuations. In recent weeks, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has organized nationwide mobilizations, observing a “Black Day” in response to police actions and the death of a farmer during protests
Government Response and Controversies
The authorities have imposed strict measures, including barricades and internet shutdowns, to manage the protests. Some leaders have called for dialogue, while others have proposed invoking the National Security Act against key protestors, sparking criticism from human rights organizations
Future Actions
Farmers plan to escalate their protests with a large gathering, the “Kisan Mazdoor Mahapanchayat,” in Delhi on March 14. This rally is expected to draw significant attention and could shape future agricultural policies.
The protests highlight the deep-rooted challenges faced by Indian farmers and the complex dynamics of agrarian politics. The outcome of these renewed agitations will likely have lasting implications for India’s farming community and policy landscape.