Gadwal: Farmers growing seed cotton near Bingidoddi in Aiza Mandal protested today. They were angry about a decision by seed companies to buy only 2 quintals of seed cotton per acre. The protest took place at the Bingidoddi stage, with many farmers demanding a change in this unfair decision.
Nadigadda Rights Struggle Committee District Chairman Gongalla Ranjith Kumar supported the farmers. He criticized the seed companies for their unfair practices and called for government help. “Farmers spend over ₹1 lakh per acre. How can companies limit procurement to just 2 quintals?” he questioned during a press briefing.
Tensions rose, prompting intervention by local authorities like DSP Mogilayya, Aiza Mandal Tahsildar Jyothi, and Agriculture Department officials. They discussed the issue with the Additional Collector and promised a meeting at the District Collector’s office the next day. Here, company representatives will be present to discuss solutions. Officials assured efforts to buy all the farmers’ yield fairly.
On receiving these promises, farmers paused their protest for now. However, Ranjith Kumar urged all affected farmers to attend the next day’s meeting. “We must stand together to claim our rights,” he stressed.
He criticized the Congress government for not acting, despite its claims of being “pro-farmer.” “After years of struggle, companies continue to exploit us. Over 40,000 seed cotton farmers in Jogulamba Gadwal face injustice. If this continues, our region, known as the ‘Seed Cotton Hub of India,’ will become a symbol of farmer suffering,” he warned.
Ranjith Kumar mentioned that the State Agricultural Commission was informed of the farmers’ issues during their recent visit. Yet, no solution came. “Now, when the crossing stage is near, companies set random limits on procurement. This is not acceptable,” he added.
Supporting leaders included Convener Bucchibabu, District Secretary Lavanna, Maldakal Mandal President Vishnu, and other committee members like Gopal, Nethanna, Meesala Kishtanna, Gorre Thimmappa, and Uppari Krishna.
Farmers made clear demands:
- Remove the 2-quintal-per-acre limit.
- Ensure fair and complete procurement.
- Hold seed companies and organizers accountable.
- Call for strong government intervention, including action from the State Agriculture Minister.
The situation remains tense. All attention is on the upcoming meeting at the Collectorate. Farmers in Jogulamba Gadwal are ready to demand not just compensation but also dignity and justice.
