CITU State unit demands Centre, State to address agrarian crisis

The Telangana State Committee of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has staged a human chain protest at Sundarayya Park in Bagh Lingampally to demand urgent action from both the Centre and State governments to tackle the agrarian crisis and safeguard farmers' interests. This protest occurred in preparation for the 36th National Conference of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), slated to take place in Nalgonda from November 15 to 18.

Addressing the rally, CITU National Treasurer M. Sai Babu highlighted that Nalgonda, renowned for its Telangana Armed Peasant Struggle legacy, would serve as an inspiration for farmers and workers. Sai Babu pointed out that despite 80 years of Independence, farmers' fundamental issues remain unresolved. He criticized the Union government for adhering to corporate-driven agricultural policies that have deteriorated the farm sector and impacted rural employment.

Aribandi Prasad Rao, a leader from Telangana Rythu Sangham, called for the cancellation of foreign trade agreements, arguing that they are detrimental to farmers. He also expressed concern that pro-corporate farm policies have persisted even after the repeal of the three farm laws. CITU leaders cited climate-related challenges, such as those linked to El Niño, and emphasized the need for increased budgetary support for agriculture, a legally mandated Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, and stronger relief measures for farmers.

The CITU plans to organize similar demonstrations across Telangana in the lead-up to the AIKS conference.