SKM Raises Objections to Cotton Import Duty Removal, Smart Meters in Haryana

Fast Summary:

• Cotton Import Tariff: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) convened a state-level panchayat in Jind,Haryana,opposing the Union government’s decision to scrap the 11% cotton import tariff until December 31.Farmers warned it could distress over 60 lakh cotton growers.
• Protest Plans: SKM announced protests from September 1 to September 3,which will include burning effigies of U.S. president Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They allege the policy was extended “under U.S. pressure.”
• Smart Meter Opposition: The panchayat rejected the smart meter installation scheme, claiming it is an effort to privatize electricity and make power tariffs unaffordable for farmers and poorer populations.
• Land Pooling Concerns: Farmers demanded withdrawal of Haryana’s land pooling project, citing concerns over fertile land being sold in violation of the land Acquisition Act, 2013.
• Despite heavy rains, large turnout at the gathering was noted.

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