Telangana turmeric farmers take out rally in Metpally town for MSP

Turmeric farmers in Telangana took out a large rally in Metpally town on Tuesday, demanding a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹15,000 per quintal under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). The farmers urged both the State and Central governments to establish procurement centers and directly purchase turmeric to prevent traders from exploiting them.

The protest, organized by the Rythu Joint Action Committee (JAC) under the call of 'Chalo Metpally,' saw participation from farmers across Jagtial, Nizamabad, and Nirmal districts. The rally, which began at Metpally market yard and moved towards the old bus stand, aimed to highlight the steep decline in turmeric prices and the growing financial distress of farmers.

Farmers accused certain traders of forming a syndicate to deliberately manipulate and reduce turmeric prices. They demanded strict government action, including the cancellation of licenses and criminal cases against those involved in unfair trade practices. Protesters also reminded the government of the promises made during elections and insisted that they be fulfilled without further delay.

The agitation saw farmers from various mandals, including Metpally, Korutla, Mallapur, Ibrahimpatnam, Kathalapur, Medipalli, and Jagtial in Jagtial district. Farmers from Kammarpally and Ergatla in Nizamabad, as well as Khanapur, Laxmanachanda, and Mamada mandals in Nirmal district, also joined the protest in large numbers.

With turmeric prices continuing to drop, farmers stressed the urgent need for government intervention to stabilize the market and ensure fair pricing for their produce. The protest underscored the growing unrest among agricultural communities and their demand for immediate action to safeguard their livelihoods.