Shri SK Narvar, Chairman, Capital India Corp., believes that the repeal of the three farm law ordinances by PM Modi is an act of humility and compassion in keeping the larger interest of our country. Therefore, we should not view it from a ‘win or loss’ angle but for the larger interest of the well-being of our farmer brethren.
Excerpts from the interview below:
Ques – How do you view PM Modi’s repealing of the three Farm Laws?
S K Narvar: I wish to congratulate PM Modi for this decision – it takes a tremendous amount of courage, humility and farsightedness. As PM Modi mentioned in his address to the nation, the Government could not make a section of our farmers understand the benefits of the three laws and hence, this decision. As he rightly pointed out, while the intention was good and for the benefit of the farmers, the Government was found lacking in its ability to convince the farmers on the merits of the farm laws.
The larger interest of the nation, be it the peace and well-being of every section of society to acting democratically, has been upheld by this generous act of our leader.
Ques – Do you think it is a step-back for the Government?
S K Narvar: We should never view such acts of national interest as a ‘step-back measure; rather, I would like to see it as a ‘step forward’ act by the Government that showcase its genuine intention, love and care for our farmer brethren. It will open up a new opportunity for dialogue and discussion with the farmer community.
Over the last year, the agitation has created a lot of dissatisfaction among various sections of society. The Government’s noble intentions were twisted and presented as a measure of confrontation with India’s farmers, and various vested interests used it to run down the Government. However, the withdrawal has proven the Government’s role of taking everybody along and creating a nation that respects its citizens to live a life of harmony.
Ques – What message does it send out to India Inc.?
S. K Narvar: The farm laws were for the socio-economic benefit of the Indian agriculture sector, and it has nothing to do with India Inc. The PM’s gesture has touched the hearts of Indians, including India Inc., that he is ready to course-correct if it serves the larger purpose of society and our nation.
In parallel, India Inc. has an excellent management lesson that we should cast no decision in stone. Instead, businesses should be nimble and agile, and leaders should be able to relook at their decisions if it is not well-understood or seems confrontational.
Ques – Will Indian agriculture suffer due to the non-implementation of the farm laws?
S K Narvar: We should all note that the three farm laws were one of the many measures that the current Government has envisioned to better Indian agriculture. It is not the end of the road, rather a steep curve which both the Government and farmers will navigate deftly and renew measures to better Indian agriculture.
India needs modern agriculture practices, including modern farm techniques, advanced technology and a better price mechanism. Without these changes, the Indian farmer will move towards oblivion. According to me, modernisation of Indian agriculture will continue irrespective of the current decision.
Ques – What happens now? What is the way forward?
S K Narvar: PM Modi has clearly said that the Government wishes to work closely with the farmer community to understand and solve their problems. As we advance, meaningful dialogue between the Government and the agri-stakeholders is the only solution.
As mentioned by our PM, specific measures like zero-budgeting farming like natural and organic farming, scientifically changing crop patterns, and making the MSP program transparent and effective will be a priority. Protecting the interests of the small and marginal farmers is essential for this Government.
