Kejriwal announces compensation for farmers

New Delhi: In a relief to farmers in the city hit by unseasonal rains and hailstorm, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday announced a compensation of Rs 50,000 for per hectare of damaged crops and said his government will stand firmly behind the peasants.
Addressing a rally at Mundka in West Delhi, Kejriwal said it was the “highest-ever” compensation given to farmers by any state government and asked why can’t governments in other states, where farmers are committing suicide, do the same. On AAP’s internal rift, the Chief Minister said “conspiracies” are being hatched to “defame” him but added these forces will not succed as “God is with us”.
Announcing the compensation, the Delhi Chief Minister said his government will provide Rs 50,000 per hectare or Rs 20,000 per acre of damaged crops “I am not doing any favour to you. This is your money and it is going back to you. Earlier the money was being stolen. Now the money is being put to right use. I am told that this is the highest compensation announced by any state government. “With this announcement, it is important to send a message to other state governments where farmers are committing suicide. If this can happen in Delhi, then why can’t it happen in Punjab, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat?” Kejriwal said.
A number of AAP MLAs were also present in the meeting. Kejriwal is addressing a similar rally tomorrow at Karawal Nagar where he is expected to make a significant announcement for unauthorised colonies. Referring to the rift in AAP, Kejriwal said efforts are being made to defame him. “The country is watching the good work done by the government.” (PTI)