Bangalore, Dec 30 (IANS) The Communist Party of India (CPI) has urged the central government to adopt a massive public investment programme in the agrarian sector to enhance foodgrain production and ensure food security.
“The government should take steps to strengthen farm infrastructure, including irrigation and power through a special package and implement the recommendations of the national commission on farmers,” CPI general secretary A.B. Bardhan told reporters Wednesday after the party’s national council met here Dec 27-29.

Noting that the agrarian economy was facing a serious crisis, leading to sharp decline in production of foodgrains, pulses, oils seeds and sugarcane, Bardhan said the national council had adopted a resolution seeking remunerative prices and cheaper credit to farmers.

“Fertiliser subsidy should be given to peasants directly along with genuine seeds. Farmers should be compensated through crop insurance in the event of natural calamities,” Bardhan said quoting the resolution.

Criticising the “indiscriminate” acquisition of farm lands for industrial projects and special economic zones, the party sought speedy land reforms to protect the interests of farmers.

The party has also demanded a ban on genetically modified crops, including Bt brinjal.

The national commission was set up in 2004 under the chairmanship of noted farm scientist M.S. Swaminathan to prepare a road map for sustainable development of agriculture and optimising its contribution to growth and development of the economy, particularly improving the income and standard of living of farmers.