Exemplary Diplomacy And Flexible Approach

The economy of Western Maharashtra belt is based on the agriculture sector. In fact, different districts, including Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur, and Pune in western Maharashtra zone are the chief sugarcane producing districts in the state. The BJP Government assured about FRP to the sugarcane crop before their taking up as a ruling party. But there are some disputes between sugar industrialists and the Government policies regarding the Sugarcane FRP determination. To handle this situation proficiently, Honourable Revenue and Agriculture Minister, Mr Chandrakant Dada Patil appealed to Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana President, Mr Raju Shetty to find some rational solution or midway between the sugar industrialist’s stand and the farmer’s demands.  

Mr Chandrakant Dada Patil arranged a press conference at his Kolhapur residence. During this press conference, he informed about the government’s stand regarding FRP issue. He explained that the Government is reinforcing that the assured FRP amount must be compensated by the sugar industrialists to the farmers. On the other hand, farmers are worried due to the unprocessed sugarcane lying at their farms. Therefore, Mr Chandrakant Dada Patil requested Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana President, Mr Raju Shetty to find some rational solution or midway between the stand of the Government and the farmer’s demands regarding the Sugarcane FRP policies. 

Mr Chandrakant Dada Patil also informed about different decisions taken by the BJP Government for the wellbeing of the sugar industry. He also warned that there will be a strict action if rules and orders are not followed in riots and strikes. Moreover, the Government will not tolerate negligence towards the rule and order during any situation. 

During this press conference, Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil was also asked about the formation of alliance between the BJP and Shiv Sena for the upcoming election to which he replied that the decision regarding the formation of the alliance will be taken after the election results of 5 states in the nation. He also clarified his opinion on the renaming of city demand in the state. According to Mr Patil, he also wishes that Aurangabad and Oosmanabad cities should be renamed. Its legal procedure will be initiated depending on the technical factors associated. 

During this press conference, Honourable Mr Chandrakant Dada Patil has demonstrated an excellent example of diplomacy. The rigid approach in applying particular principles and rules is not always preferred and hence, sometimes the flexibility in approach is required in order to achieve a win-win situation. Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil has shown his flexible approach in the matter of Sugarcane FRP dispute between sugar industrialists, Government policies, and the farmers. This attitude also illustrates his concern and care for the farmers in the state. Actually, farmers in the Maharashtra state are highly fortunate that they are guided and lead by such optimistic and concerned leader. We hope that Mr Raju Shetty considers Agriculture Minister's opinion seriously and accordingly, be able to find a rational and practical solution on the FRP issue.