Sitharaman Accuses Stalin Of Distorting Centre Advisory On Farmers Bonus Policy
Sitharaman and Stalin exchange sharp words over Centre advisory on farm bonus policy and intent.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday accused Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin of spreading “false narratives” over a Centre advisory related to bonus policies for wheat and paddy farmers, escalating a political exchange on social media platform X. The row centres on a January 9 communication from the Union Finance Ministry’s Expenditure Secretary regarding agricultural procurement incentives.
Sitharaman alleged that Stalin misinterpreted the advisory issued to state governments, which suggested reviewing existing bonus structures for wheat and paddy in view of surplus stock levels. She said most states across party lines had understood the intent in the spirit of cooperative federalism, while only the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister chose to “sensationalise” the matter for political gain.
In response, Stalin challenged the Centre and demanded that the January 9 letter be made public, alleging that the Union government had effectively asked Tamil Nadu to discontinue its paddy bonus policy. Sitharaman later shared the document on X, asserting that the communication was advisory in nature and aimed at encouraging states to align incentives with national agricultural priorities.
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According to the Centre’s advisory, states were urged to consider shifting focus from wheat and paddy bonuses towards encouraging cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and millets. The proposal was linked to broader goals of nutrition security, Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), and more sustainable agricultural practices, especially given the high surplus stocks of staple grains.
Sitharaman argued that encouraging diversification in agriculture was essential for reducing dependence on imports and strengthening domestic food security. She added that over-reliance on imported pulses and oilseeds exposes the economy to global price fluctuations and external supply shocks, making domestic production strategically important.
The exchange comes at a politically sensitive time as Tamil Nadu is scheduled to go to polls on April 23. Sitharaman also accused the DMK-led state government of using the issue to create a divide between the Centre and states, while projecting itself as a defender of farmers and Tamil interests.
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