Key Facts
Farmers in Bilaspur district are up in arms against the state government's decision to make e-KYC mandatory for obtaining fertilizer. The Himachal Kisan Evam Jan Kalyan Sabha, led by state president Brij Lal Sharma, has strongly opposed the new system, calling it detrimental to farmers' interests. The organization has urged the government to reconsider the requirement and simplify the process.
Details of the Protest
Speaking at a gathering in Bhaged village, Brij Lal Sharma said, "Farmers are being entangled in new formalities during the important time of farming." He highlighted that without completing e-KYC, farmers are unable to get fertilizer from cooperative societies and depots. Many farmers in rural areas are facing internet and server issues, forcing them to make multiple trips to complete the process. Sharma warned, "If farmers do not get fertilizer on time, it will directly affect crop production and farmers' income."
Impact on Farmers
The mandatory e-KYC has added to the woes of farmers who are already grappling with rising input costs, adverse weather, and crop damage by wild animals. Sharma emphasized, "Making the process of obtaining essential agricultural inputs like fertilizer complicated is not appropriate." He claimed that the e-KYC system for fertilizer distribution has been implemented only in Bilaspur district so far, questioning, "Why are such new rules being imposed on farmers?"
What Farmers Should Know
Several farmers, including Ashwini Kumar, Suman Bhardwaj, Rajendra Kumar, Raghu Ram, Prakash Chand, Lekh Ram Thakur, Sunil Kumar, and Ram Prakash Vashisth, expressed anger over the new system. They demanded that the fertilizer distribution process be simplified keeping in mind the problems of farmers. The Himachal Kisan Evam Jan Kalyan Sabha has called upon the state government, Agriculture Department, and Cooperation Department to review the e-KYC system and find a quick solution. The organization has warned that if the issue is not resolved, farmer groups will raise it at a larger level.
FAQ
Why are farmers in Bilaspur protesting?
Farmers are protesting against the mandatory e-KYC requirement for obtaining fertilizer, which they say is causing delays and hardships during the crucial farming season.
What is the demand of the farmers' organization?
The Himachal Kisan Evam Jan Kalyan Sabha has demanded that the state government review the e-KYC system and simplify the fertilizer distribution process.
Is the e-KYC system implemented across Himachal?
According to the farmers' leader, the e-KYC system for fertilizer distribution is currently implemented only in Bilaspur district.
What problems are farmers facing due to e-KYC?
Farmers face issues such as poor internet connectivity and server problems in rural areas, leading to incomplete e-KYC and multiple trips to fertilizer depots.