Date:05/11/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/11/05/stories/2007110554280400.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Ryot leaders for unanimous resolution on MSP

HYDERABAD: With all efforts to ensure Rs. 1,000 minimum support price for quintal of paddy failing to yield results, farmers’ wings of the opposition parties have decided to intensify their agitation.

Representatives of the Andhra Pradesh Ryotu Sangham, AP Rythu Sangham, Telugu Rythu, Bharatiya Kisan Morcha and the TRS-affiliated Telangana Kisan Sena met Opposition leader N. Chandrababu Naidu and expressed their desire to call for a State-wide bandh, if necessary, to mount pressure on the Government to hike the MSP. Mr. Naidu had assured his party’s support to the agitation launched in the interests of the farmers.

They wanted the political parties to demand passage of a unanimous resolution on the issue in Legislative Assembly and Council. Later, they met Legislative Council Chairman A. Chakrapani and appealed to him to ensure passage the resolution.

Not encouraging

They said though Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy had taken up the issue with the Centre, the results had not been encouraging thus far. The present MSP of Rs. 695 for common variety and Rs. 725 for Grade A variety would not solve the problems of farmers.

The farmers’ representatives also called on BJP leader G. Kishan Reddy and CPI (M) floor leader N. Narsimhaiah appealing to them to insist on the resolution.