Jammu Tawi: The Kisan Sabha marked its 45th Foundation Day at Panchayat Gurha Kalyal in Billawar Sub-District, with a significant gathering of farmer representatives from Jammu Province and Punjab. The event was presided over by Hari Chand Jalmeria, President of J&K Kisan Sabha, with Dr. Satnam Singh Ajnala, President of Jamhoori Kisan Sabha Punjab, as the chief guest, and Natha Singh, General Secretary of CTU, Pathankot, as the guest of honor.
During the celebration, Hari Chand Jalmeria recounted the organization’s history, highlighting its struggles and achievements over the past 45 years. He emphasized the Kisan Sabha’s role in organizing farmers, advocating for their rights, and addressing key issues such as compensation for losses due to natural disasters, and supporting campaigns on a national level. Jalmeria stressed that peasants and workers are the backbone of society’s development.
Dr. Satnam Singh Ajnala criticized the National Policy Framework on Agriculture Marketing, stating it primarily benefits large corporations rather than the farmers. Several local leaders, including Joginder Singh and Makhan Jamodia, raised concerns regarding the challenges faced by farmers, particularly in relation to market access, irrigation, and crop protection.
The Sabha passed resolutions demanding the creation of a new district for Billawar, the establishment of an agricultural university center, improved irrigation and marketing infrastructure, and the promotion of organic farming. Other resolutions included calls for pension schemes for farmers, job reservations for their children in agriculture-related sectors, and support for local artisan industries.
The gathering concluded with a call for immediate measures to address environmental challenges and ensure the preservation of agricultural land in the region.
