POKSSS threatens to launch stir over cash crunch

The Paschim Odisha Krushak Sangathan Samanway Samiti (POKSSS) has threatened to launch stir over cash crunch following the demonetisation drive.
"Farmers have money in their bank accounts. But, they are unable to withdraw the money because of scarcity of cash in banks. Farmers require cash for labour payment, transportation of paddy to market yards and for other works," POKSSS convener Lingaraj told reporters here.
Lingaraj said farmers also require cash for preparation of Rabi crop now.
"We want the government to take emergency measures to deal with the problem of scarcity of cash, otherwise it will lead to an explosive situation," he said.

The farmers' body demanded the paddy procurement policy to be decided at district level.
"Earlier, the quantity of paddy to be collected per acre of land was being decided at district level. But, the decision is being taken in Bhubaneswar for the last two years. The government is procuring 18 quintals of paddy per acre of land in irrigated areas and 12 quintals in non-irrigated areas.

"However, the farmer in the Hirakud command area witnessed bumper crop of paddy this year. We want the government to increase the limit of procuring paddy from farmers," said POKSSS spokesman Saroj.
"While the government is making several announcements ahead of the panchayat polls, it is yet to disburse the input subsidy, insurance claim against crop loss and drought assistance to all farmers," Saroj said.

The Nava Nirman Krushak Sangathan would hold a farmers' rally tomorrow in front of the Assembly.