Both sides need to take steps forward to arrive at an amicable solution, said Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar

Reiterating its commitment to solving farmers’ problems, the central government on Wednesday said their demands, including those relating to Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the repeal of farm laws can be examined by a committee.

The government made its stand clear during the sixth round of talks with representatives of farmers' unions held in New Delhi today. Another round of talks has been scheduled for January 4.

Assuring the farmers’ unions that MSP and the Mandi system will continue like before, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar said both sides need to take steps forward to arrive at an amicable solution.

"The demand of the Farmers’ Unions for an MSP law and the difference between MSP and market rates for agricultural produce would be referred to a committee when it is constituted," the minister was quoted saying in an official statement issued after .

On the unions’ demand for the repeal of Farm Laws, the Minister said that this too can be referred to a committee, which will study the constitutional validity and propriety keeping in mind the welfare of farmers.

The suggestions of the farmers’ unions regarding the Air Quality Management Ordinance and the Electricity Amendment Bill had been agreed to in principle, Tomar said, adding that the government "has an open mind and is willing to resolve all issues with clear intentions".

The Agriculture Minister asked the farmers' union leaders to put forward their proposals for the government to study and assured that the government is taking all possible steps for the welfare of farmers.

Complimenting the farmers’ unions for maintaining discipline and peace during their protest, he appealed for an end to the agitation so that women, children, and elders can return home.