Telangana government faces farmers’ anger over paddy cultivation self-declaration forms

In an unprecedented move, the Congress government in Telangana is obtaining self-declaration forms from farmers stating that they intend to cultivate paddy during the upcoming Rabi season despite the government’s advisory against it, citing prevailing El Nino conditions. the self – declaration form made it clear that the government will not have any responsibility for loss of crop.

Farmers allege that the government is coercing them into signing these declarations through fertiliser dealers who sell seeds. They claim that the government’s inability to ensure adequate irrigation water and an uninterrupted power supply for agricultural activities is pushing them into further hardship.

The key question, however, remains: Who prepared the self-declaration form, and who authorised its use?

The self-declaration form states: “Although the government has advised farmers not to cultivate paddy due to the impact of El Nino, I intend to cultivate paddy as it is the only crop suitable for me. Therefore, I am purchasing the required seeds at my own discretion and responsibility. As I am making this decision voluntarily and at my own risk, I am submitting this self-declaration form.”

The form further states that the government will bear no responsibility or liability for any loss or reduction in crop yield resulting from the non-availability of electricity, a lack of irrigation water, or any other reason.

Meanwhile, farmers’ leaders have expressed strong resentment over the state government’s move to obtain these declarations. They argue that ensuring irrigation water and an uninterrupted electricity supply for agriculture is the government’s responsibility. They alleged: “instead of taking effective measures to mitigate the impact of El Nino and addressing farmers’ concerns over the availability of water and electricity, the government is attempting to shift the responsibility onto farmers”.

The controversy has raised serious questions about the government’s approach to agricultural policy and its responsibility to protect farmers’ interests during the upcoming Rabi season.