The Farmers` Empowerment and Protection Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act is a significant piece of legislation passed by the Indian government in 2020. This act aims to empower farmers by giving them greater control over the price of their crops and providing them with better services to improve their farming practices and overall livelihoods.
The act allows farmers to enter into agreements with buyers before sowing their crops, which ensures that they receive a minimum guaranteed price for their produce. These agreements are voluntary and allow farmers to negotiate with buyers for a fair price. Moreover, the buyers are required to pay the farmers within a specified period, which provides them with much-needed liquidity.
In addition to price assurance, the act also includes several provisions for the protection of farmers. One of the key provisions is the establishment of a dispute resolution mechanism, which allows farmers to seek redressal for any grievances they may have with buyers. This provision ensures that farmers are not left vulnerable to exploitative practices by buyers.
The act also seeks to improve the quality of services provided to farmers. It requires buyers to provide farmers with necessary inputs, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, at reasonable prices. Furthermore, the act aims to promote sustainable farming practices by providing farmers with access to new technologies and practices that can help them improve productivity while preserving the environment.
Overall, the Farmers` Empowerment and Protection Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act is a significant step towards empowering farmers and improving their livelihoods. It recognizes the challenges faced by farmers and seeks to address them through a holistic approach that includes both price assurance and improved services. The act has the potential to transform the agriculture sector in India and create a more sustainable future for farmers.