New Delhi: Central Agriculture Minister and former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, took a strong stance against Congress in the Rajya Sabha, accusing the party of harboring deceitful tactics reminiscent of Shakuni and Chausar from the Mahabharata. Chouhan asserted that Congresss actions are historically anti-farmer, claiming that anti-farmer is in the DNA of Congress.Criticism of Congresss agricultural policiesWhile responding to discussions on the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Chouhan questioned why Congress repeatedly references characters like Shakuni and events like Chausar, both symbols of deception and betrayal. He criticized Congresss promise to waive loans, noting that their failure to deliver on these promises in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan is akin to the deceit of Shakuni and Chausar.Chouhan remarked, Why does the Congress always remember Shakuni, Chausar, and Chakravyuh These references were used to highlight Congresss alleged history of unfulfilled promises and misleading tactics.Chouhan went further to criticize the historical economic policies under Congress, mentioning former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehrus admiration for Russian models, which he claimed led to India being forced to consume substandard wheat from the United States. He also criticized the levy system under Indira Gandhis tenure, suggesting it stunted Indias agricultural self-reliance.He added, Rajiv Gandhi discussed agricultural pricing but failed to implement policies to increase farmers incomes. He pointed out that during Narasimha Raos tenure, agricultural industries were not de-licensed, hindering growth.What are BJPs agricultural prioritiesChouhan praised the Modi governments shift in agricultural priorities, focusing on increasing production, reducing costs, and ensuring fair prices for farmers. We have six priorities, he stated, including promoting natural farming for future generations.He highlighted the increase in the agriculture budget from ₹27,664 crore in 2013-14 to ₹1,32,000 crore, emphasizing the governments commitment to water management through initiatives like the Jal Shakti Ministry and river linking projects pioneered by Atal Bihari Vajpayee and realized by Narendra Modi in Gujarat.Commitment to farmersChouhan assured that the government is dedicated to providing affordable fertilizers and purchasing crops at Minimum Support Prices (MSP). He emphasized that for the BJP, the farmer is not a vote bank he is God, reiterating the governments commitment to farmers welfare.
