Kaithal, August 23: Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala has targeted both the central and state governments over rising unemployment, inflation, and sugar prices in Haryana and across the country. He stated that Haryana is facing a severe crisis, with the most significant threat being the future of its youth. Despite having education, skills, and capabilities, young people lack job opportunities. The governments have closed off avenues for employment, pushing youth under the burden of expensive education, which is also straining their families financially.
Surjewala pointed out that a report from the NITI Aayog mentions 90 million unemployed individuals in the country, while the actual figure could be between 200 to 250 million. He raised concerns about where such a vast number of unemployed youth will go. According to him, this has become a serious challenge for the nation that requires immediate government attention.
He emphasized that Haryana is an agrarian state, and it is the government’s responsibility to enhance agricultural productivity, improve irrigation and drinking water facilities, and ensure sufficient electricity for farmers. However, he noted that no substantial work has been done in these areas over the past 12 years. He urged the educated class of society to step forward and pressure the government to act on public interest issues.
Addressing the rising sugar prices, the Congress leader remarked that sugar has become bitter for the common man, completely disrupting the budgets of ordinary families. He held the central government responsible, alleging that the E-20 petrol and ethanol production policy is benefiting sugar mills. He pointed out that India was once a sugar-exporting nation but now has to import millions of tons of raw sugar. He questioned who is accountable for this situation.
Surjewala noted that the prices of essential items, including mustard oil, soybean oil, flour, sugar, biscuits, and instant noodles, have surged. Additionally, vehicle prices have also seen significant increases. He stated that while inflation is hitting the people hard, job opportunities are scarce, making life increasingly difficult for the common man.
In response to a question, he mentioned that the Sugar Control Order is in effect in the country, and merely making statements will not lower sugar prices. He highlighted that farmers do not receive fair prices for sugarcane on time, leading them to distance themselves from sugarcane cultivation. A decrease in sugarcane production subsequently affects sugar output. Furthermore, a significant portion of the remaining sugarcane is being used for ethanol production.
He added that with the festive season approaching, the country is forced to import raw sugar from abroad. India was once a sugar-exporting country and never needed imports, but now foreign currency is being spent on sugar imports.
Surjewala also questioned the education system, asking why millions of young people are struggling on the streets for jobs if the country’s education policy is so effective. He pointed out that the fees for higher education have skyrocketed to millions of rupees, making it increasingly difficult for poor families to afford their children’s education.
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