Bhubaneswar, Feb 19: Over 500 farmers from across the State on Thursday staged a demonstrion at Lower PMG Square here to press for the fulfillment of their demands including pension.
The farmers led by Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan – a forum of farmers gathered here after walking from Cuttack yesterday.
They had halted at Hanspal area on the outskirts of the capital city for the night and began their march to Lower PMG Sqaure in the morning.
Farmers from across the State, mostly from Western Odisha, are participating in the march.
Farmers’ leaders addressing the demonstrators said that the agitation will continue till the State government fulfils their demands.
They also demanded immediate payment of compensation to the families of those farmers who ended their lives due to cop loss or loan burden.
The farmers demanded implementation of pension scheme for farmers, better procurement facilities, higher minimum support price, better social status and drought compensation.
However, Food Supply and Consumer Affairs Minister Sanjay Dasburma told reporters that the State government will soon set up a committee to discuss the issues raised by the farmers and appropriate action will be taken to redress their grievances.
