The soul of India resides in her farmlands. For centuries, our farmers have toiled on the land, sowing seeds of nourishment. Their sweat and labour fill our plates with rice, wheat, vegetables, and more. Our debt to them is immense.
That is why it pains me deeply when discord arises between our farmers and leaders. In 2020, proposed agriculture reforms led to great unrest. Thousands camped at Delhi’s borders in protest, with dozens sadly losing their lives. My heart goes out to those families. While the laws were repealed, the underlying issues remain unresolved.
Now the farmers have returned, seeking the promises made. They seek guaranteed fair prices for their produce to safeguard their income. They call for pensions and debt relief to safeguard their futures. They want those who exploit farmers with counterfeit agricultural inputs to be held accountable. They ask for additional guaranteed work days to supplement their earnings during lean seasons.
These demands come from a place of livelihood insecurity and a longing for dignity.
However, prolonged unrest serves no one. Not the government, not the farmers, and certainly not the people of India.
First and foremost, let us acknowledge the government’s efforts to balance reform, growth and welfare. The way forward now requires empathy on both sides. Progress emerges through cooperation, not conflict.
My deepest wish is for India to stand united as one family. That our fields will be filled only with joyful workers, not protesters. That farmers and leaders will sit together as friends seeking common purpose.
I have faith that if all sides come together in a spirit of reconciliation, harmony and prosperity will prevail.
So I appeal to the farmers – continue to make your voice heard, but do so with compassion. Violence will only breed more violence, while nonviolence can transform hearts. Be firm yet kind. Stay peaceful on the path you’ve chosen.
And I appeal to the government – engage with humility. Listen to the needs of the people who feed the nation. Fulfil the vows you made during the 2020-21 protests. Come to the table with good faith. The agricultural community is the beating heart of India. Their prosperity is our shared duty. With open minds and kind hearts, a solution can surely be found.
India’s future is green. Her fields must be golden. Let us move forward together towards that vision of abundance and equity for our farmers. For when they thrive, India thrives.
We in South Africa can only give humble advice to the farmers and Government but will not indulge into politics of India.