New Delhi/Shimla: True to its leftist stand, All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) has condemned the Union Budget, branding it a "betrayal of the garib, mahila, yuva, mazdoor, and annadata" and a boon for corporate interests.

AIKS President Ashok Dhawale criticized the budget for its lack of support for agriculture and rural workers, highlighting several key issues.

Declining Agricultural Allocation

The allocation for agriculture and allied sectors has continuously declined, dropping from 5.44% in 2019 to 3.15% today," Dhawale stated.

Compared to 2022-23, there is a 21.2% decrease in funding for these sectors. AIKS also noted the absence of measures to ensure assured crop procurement at C2+50% and no increase in allocations for MGNREGA, PM-KISAN, and PMFBY.

 Insufficient MGNREGA Funding

With Rs. 42,000 crore already spent from the Rs. 86,000 crore MGNREGA allocation, Dhawale warned, "This will increase rural distress and migration."

 Cuts in Crop Husbandry and Fertilisers

Dhawale pointed out significant budget cuts for crop husbandry and fertilisers, with declines of 24.7% and 34.7%, respectively, from 2022-23 levels. "These cuts will negatively impact agricultural productivity," he said.

 National Cooperation Policy

AIKS criticized the National Cooperation Policy for infringing on states' rights, despite a 30.5% cut in funding for cooperation. "This policy aims to centralize control over cooperatives," Dhawale explained.

 Corporate Inroads into Agriculture

Dhawale expressed concern over private sector funding in public agricultural research and the introduction of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in agriculture. "These moves pave the way for corporate control over agricultural research and potential land grabbing," he warned.

Lack of Assured Prices and Support

The budget fails to provide assured remunerative prices for pulses and oilseeds, effective crop insurance, and other essential support measures.

"This budget clearly prioritizes corporate interests over the needs of farmers and workers," Dhawale concluded.

AIKS calls for protests against what it sees as the budget's neglect of farmers' and workers' welfare in favor of corporate profits.