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This is an archive article published on December 18, 2021
Chaduni’s mantra to increase Punjab farmers’ income: Farming of opium
He said, “I am not saying only opium farming will give employment to the youths, but it is already taking place in several parts of the country.”
2 min read
During the launch of Sanyukt Sangharsh Party (Express photo)Farmer leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni, who launched his political party Sanyukt Sangharsh Party Saturday, has advocated farming of opium in Punjab by issuing licences on the pattern of Rajasthan apart from farming of flowers to increase the income of farmers.
Chaduni told The Indian Express: “The farming of opium should also be considered in Punjab which is very profitable for the farmers. Opium is very costly which is used for medicines. It would be very beneficial for the farmers at a time when farming is turning into a business of losses. I did not say only farming of opium will give employment to youths. It is already taking place in several parts of the country. In the absence of employment, the youths of Punjab are very upset. That’s why they are moving to other countries.”
For the cultivation of opium, a licence from the Central Bureau of Narcotics is mandatory. According to the bureau, licit cultivation is carried out only in selected tracks in the country which are annually notified by the Central government in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. In Rajasthan, the farming of opium is allowed only in Chittorgarh and Pratapgarh districts.
Chaduni said: “The issue of farming is the main agenda for us. However, our party is for everyone. It may be majdoor, farmer, rehriwala, employees or traders. We have launched the party today itself. We are preparing a manifesto and complete roadmap. As of now, we have plans to contest all 117 seats of Punjab. We have come into politics to change the polluted politics. Politics has been made a business which needs to be changed.”
He said: “We had gone to West Bengal not to support TMC but to oppose the BJP. If black farm laws are introduced again, we are ready to struggle again.”
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