Not MSP, low input cost is Ugrahan group's focus now

Union now pushing for lower prices of diesel, pesticides, agro-chemicals, seeds

- Gurpreet Singh Nibber

CHANDIGARH: Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Ugrahan), a farm body based in Malwa belt of Punjab that has the largest support base in the state, has sidestepped from seeking a hike in the minimum support price (MSP) for all crops. Now, Joginder Singh Ugrahan-led BKU is seeking reduction in input cost, such as fall in prices of diesel, agro-chemical, pesticides, seeds and the other key inputs for agriculture.

A former vice-chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, who didn't wish to be named, said, "The change is a cause of concern because the farm bodies which have been at the forefront are backstepping."