Thread by @PSainath_org

1/5. PM Modi has repeatedly told us that a) he will never allow MSP to die and b) he will double farmers incomes by 2022. Great. So what stops him from moving a 5 paragraph Bill cementing those assurances? Unlike the earlier 3, this Bill would pass unanimously.
#FarmBill2020

2/5. The Bill would say: MSP (Swaminathan formula, as the BJP promised in 2014) stands guaranteed. No big traders, corporations or other ‘new buyers’ can lift produce at below MSP. Also, guarantee procurement to ensure that MSP is not reduced to a mockery.
#FarmBill2020

3/5. Lastly, the Bill would declare cancellation of farmer debt. There’s no way their incomes will double by 2022 or even 2032, while they are drowning in debt. With MSP and doubling of incomes being the PM’s own promises, who'd oppose such a Bill?
#FarmBill2020

4/5. Unlike the 3 Bills rammed through forcibly, PM Modi would see this Bill guaranteeing MSP and cancelling debt (both his own promises) sail through. He would not have to ride roughshod over dissent in parliament – unlikely there would be much of that.
#FarmBill2020

5/5. And since this government has already encroached on the state subject – agriculture – what’s to stop it from moving this Bill? Certainly not respect for federal structures and states’ rights. The money for it is anyway only with the Centre.
#FarmBill2020