New Delhi (Agency): Farmers in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, have been staging a protest known as ‘mahapadav’ since Thursday, demanding seven hours of uninterrupted electricity supply and immediate issuance of transformers for agricultural use. The demonstration, which entered its fifth day on Monday, has seen three rounds of talks between the farmers and officials from the Jodhpur power distribution company (Discom), but without any resolution.
The farmers’ demands include not only a stable power supply for agriculture but also a reserve stock of five transformers in every division to speed up the replacement of burnt transformers. According to Tulcha Ram Sinwar, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh’s (BKS) Rajasthan secretary, the sit-in will continue as the officials have not taken any action on their demands. He emphasized the need for visible results on the ground.
On the other hand, Discom’s officials have claimed that the farmers’ problems have been resolved, a statement that is clearly at odds with the farmers’ continued protest.
Rajasthan Energy Minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati has acknowledged that the Jodhpur Discom handles the largest power burden in the state, given that Jodhpur is a desert district with unique challenges. He cited the region’s low underground water table, which has gone below 1,000 feet in many places, as a reason for the increased demand for electricity.
Sinwar and other protesting farmers argue that their demands have been conveyed to officials several times in the past, only to receive assurances without tangible action. They are determined to continue the protest until they witness concrete changes.
The issue of electricity supply is critical for farmers, especially in a desert region where water pumping requires significant power. Sinwar noted that farmers have been suffering from power cuts and low voltage, which have led to reduced watering of crops, resulting in low yields and crops drying up.
Additionally, farmers have accused Jodhpur Discom’s officials of arbitrarily interpreting the state government’s announcement of 2,000 units of free-of-cost electricity, adding to their grievances.
The ongoing farmers’ protest in Jodhpur underscores the complex challenges of energy distribution and access in rural areas. The situation highlights the disconnect between official statements and the lived reality of farmers, who rely on a stable power supply for their livelihoods. With both sides holding firm, the resolution of this standoff will require genuine engagement and concrete action to address the farmers’ concerns. The protest also serves as a reminder of the broader issues of infrastructure and governance that affect the agricultural community across India.