The Sajha Manch regretted that the pact had been signed in July last year without taking into account the concerns of farmers who would be “squarely hit” by the farm research and extension services being handed over to the multinational company known for promoting its genetically modified (GM) seed technology in poor countries without regard to its adverse impacts.
The State Government has since appointed an expert committee comprising agricultural economists and bio-technologists for examining the agreement’s provisions and their impact on the agriculture sector.
Alwar-based activist Virendra Vidrohi said farmers in all parts of the State were protesting against the accord and approaching the representatives of their respective panchayats with their suspicions and misgivings. “The State Agriculture Ministry’s indifference to the issue raises a serious question about the way the Government treats the agriculture sector.”
Farmer leader Bhagirath Chaudhary said Monsanto wanted to capture the huge market for seeds in Rajasthan which would have “serious consequences” for the livelihood of small and marginal farmers. Kisan Sangh general secretary Badrinarain Chaudhary bemoaned that farmers had been completely ignored in such a sensitive matter.
The Sajha Manch has submitted memorandums registering farmers’ protest against the agreement to revenue officers at tehsil level across the State and is holding meetings at all village panchayats to apprise the elected representatives of the gravity of the issue.