digantsharma In early 2025, India witnessed a resurgence of farmer protests, echoing the historic agitations of 2020–21. Thousands of farmers from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra marched to Delhi once again, demanding policy clarity, guaranteed MSP, and timely implementation of welfare schemes.
At the heart of this renewed movement lies frustration over delayed action on promises made during the repeal of the three contentious farm laws in 2021. Despite some policy advancements in recent budgets, many grassroots farmers feel that the benefits have not trickled down to them, sparking widespread discontent.
🚜 What Are the Farmers Demanding?
- Legal Guarantee for MSP
Farmers insist that MSP should be legally enforceable for all crops, not just cereals. They argue that the absence of legal backing leaves them vulnerable to market volatility. - Debt Relief and Loan Restructuring
Rising input costs and climate-related crop failures have pushed many smallholders into debt. Farmers are seeking a comprehensive loan waiver package and flexible KCC repayment terms. - Insurance Payout Delays
Under PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana), many farmers claim they haven’t received compensation for failed crops from previous seasons. They demand timely audits and improved transparency. - Pension Scheme for Aging Farmers
With over 50% of India’s farmers above the age of 50, protesters are urging the government to roll out a national pension scheme for retired farmers, ensuring financial security in old age.
🛣️ March to Delhi: What Happened on the Ground?
Farmers began mobilizing from early February, using tractors, buses, and foot marches to converge at the Delhi border points—Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur. This time, the protests were more organized, with unified charters of demand and leadership coordination across states.
Security forces erected barricades and imposed Section 144 in key areas, but the protests remained largely peaceful, with farmers setting up langars (community kitchens) and medical camps.
🗣️ Government Response
The central government held three rounds of talks with farmer leaders. While it agreed to some demands—such as fast-tracking MSP portal development and increasing PMFBY coverage—talks on legal MSP and debt relief remained inconclusive.
A high-powered committee has been formed to review the demands, with a report expected by mid-year. Meanwhile, the farmers have vowed to continue sit-ins until their voices are heard.
🔍 Looking Ahead: Can Dialogue Bridge the Gap?
These protests highlight the widening disconnect between policy promises and ground realities. Analysts suggest that unless farmers see tangible, timely outcomes, such agitations may become a recurring feature.
As India moves towards its next general elections, how the government addresses these concerns could play a crucial role in shaping rural voter sentiment.
