The farmers’ movement in Maharashtra has a long and powerful history. Many leaders have dedicated their lives to protecting farmers’ rights and ensuring fair agricultural policies. One such prominent leader is Gunvant Patil Hangargekar, who played an important role in strengthening the farmers’ movement through Shetkari Sanghatana.
His journey in the farmers’ organization began in the early 1990s, a time when farmers in Maharashtra faced severe economic and policy challenges. Through his leadership and determination, he mobilized farmers to fight for their rights and demand freedom in agricultural markets.
Beginning of His Work in Shetkari Sanghatana (1990)
Gunvant Patil Hangargekar began his active involvement in Shetkari Sanghatana in 1990. During this time, farmers were struggling with multiple restrictions imposed by government policies. These restrictions limited farmers’ ability to sell their produce freely and often forced them to accept lower prices.
Recognizing these issues, Gunvant Patil started working at the grassroots level to organize farmers and raise awareness about their rights.
His key objectives included:
- Ensuring economic freedom for farmers
- Securing fair market prices for agricultural produce
- Opposing unnecessary government restrictions on farm products
- Strengthening farmers through collective organization
Through continuous efforts and dedication, he gained strong support and trust from farmers across the region.
Appointment as Nanded District President in 1995
In recognition of his commitment and leadership, Gunvant Patil Hangargekar was appointed as the District President of Shetkari Sanghatana in Nanded in 1995.
After taking charge as district president, he intensified the movement to address farmers’ issues in the region. His leadership helped strengthen the organization and expand its influence among farmers in Nanded district.
Under his guidance, several important farmer protests and movements were organized to challenge restrictive agricultural policies.
Historic Farmers’ Protest at Nanded Collector Office – 6 December 1995
One of the most significant movements led under his leadership took place on 6 December 1995, when Shetkari Sanghatana organized a major protest at the Nanded District Collector Office.
The protest was aimed at fighting against various government restrictions imposed on agricultural production and trade. Farmers believed these policies were limiting their freedom and preventing them from receiving fair prices for their produce.
The Nanded District Shetkari Sanghatana decided to launch a determined struggle to remove these restrictions and ensure farmers’ economic independence.
Key Demands of the Movement
The protest focused on several important issues affecting farmers:
Removal of Sugarcane Zone Restrictions
Farmers demanded the removal of the sugarcane zoning system, which restricted where they could sell their produce. They wanted the freedom to sell sugarcane to any sugar factory offering better prices.
Removal of Cotton Regional Restrictions
Cotton farmers demanded an end to regional restrictions on cotton trade, which limited their ability to sell produce in open markets.
Removal of Export Restrictions
Farmers also demanded the removal of export bans on agricultural products, which prevented them from accessing international markets and receiving higher prices.
“Now It Is Do or Die” – The Determined Call for Action
The movement was organized with a strong and determined spirit. The Nanded District Shetkari Sanghatana adopted the slogan:
“Now it is either to act or never act.”
With this determination, farmers gathered and began their protest at the Nanded District Collector Office on 6 December 1995, marking a significant moment in the farmers’ movement of the region.
This protest symbolized the farmers’ resolve to break the chains of restrictive policies and demand economic freedom for agriculture.
A Significant Chapter in the Farmers’ Movement
The 1995 protest was not just a demonstration but an important milestone in the struggle for farmers’ rights. Under the leadership of Gunvant Patil Hangargekar, farmers united to raise their voices against policies that affected their livelihoods.
The movement strengthened Shetkari Sanghatana in Nanded district and inspired many farmers to actively participate in the fight for fair agricultural policies.
Conclusion
Gunvant Patil Hangargekar’s contributions to the farmers’ movement represent a significant chapter in Maharashtra’s agricultural history. His involvement in Shetkari Sanghatana since 1990 and his leadership during the 1995 Nanded farmers’ protest demonstrate his dedication to the cause of farmers.
His efforts helped build a stronger farmers’ organization and encouraged farmers to stand together for their rights and economic freedom.
Even today, his work continues to inspire those who believe in empowering farmers and ensuring justice for the agricultural community.