As per the recently passed farm act, what is the minimum period of the farming agreement in terms of crop season?

The correct answer is One crop season.

Key Points

• The minimum period for a farming agreement under the recently passed farm act is one crop season, ensuring contracts align with agricultural cycles.
• Farming agreements are designed to cover the period required for the production of crops or rearing of animals as specified in the agreement.
• The legislation aims to provide farmers with a stable and predictable income by allowing pre-arranged agreements with buyers.
• The agreements can extend beyond one crop season, depending on the mutual consent of both parties, but must not be less than one crop season.
• This provision is part of the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020.

Additional Information

• Farm Acts 2020
  • The three farm laws passed in 2020 are: Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act.
  • The laws aimed to liberalize the agricultural market, providing farmers the freedom to sell their produce outside traditional mandis.
  • They also aimed to promote contract farming and reduce the role of intermediaries.
• Contract Farming
  • Contract farming refers to agricultural production carried out as per an agreement between buyers and farmers.
  • It ensures farmers a fixed price before sowing and provides a guaranteed market for their produce.
• Crop Season in India
  • India has two major crop seasons: Kharif (June to October) and Rabi (October to March).
  • Some regions also have a Zaid season (summer crops grown between Rabi and Kharif seasons).
• Criticism of Farm Acts
  • Many farmers expressed concerns about losing Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantees.
  • The laws sparked widespread protests, leading to their repeal in 2021.