#Farmer Tractor Rally

[master-john-uk]

11th December 2024.

What a magnificent sight! Around 500 tractors took part in a rally in Central London as farmers protest against the governments new tax changes.

I was not in London today, but as I was driving towards Sevenoaks just before 8am this morning I stopped and showed my support as a convoy of around 25 tractors en-route to Westminster passed in the opposite direction.

[thoughtportal]

Tens of thousands of people streamed into a central square in Serbia's capital on Sunday for a rally against populist President Aleksandar Vucic and his government, whose tight grip on power has been challenged by weeks of street protests led by university students.

The rally at Belgrade's Slavija Square, one of the largest in recent years, was called by students and farmer unions. It was part of a wider movement demanding accountability over the Nov. 1 collapse of a canopy at a railway station in the country's north that killed 15 people.

“We are all under the canopy,” read one of the banners displayed at the main Belgrade square.

Smaller rallies were also held in the cities of Nis and Kragujevac. The protest in Belgrade started with a 15-minute silence for the victims, and later chants of “You have blood on your hands!” were heard.

Many in Serbia blame the collapse on widespread corruption and sloppy work on the railway station building in the city of Novi Sad that was twice renovated in recent years as part of questionable mega projects involving Chinese state companies. Protesters demand that Vucic and those responsible face justice.

Read moreSerbia: Anti-corruption movement gains ground after deadly train station accident

Serbia's popular theater and movie actors joined the protest, with actor Bane Trifunovic describing Sunday’s rally as “a festival of freedom.”

In a show of confidence, the Serbian president on Sunday inaugurated a section of a newly built highway in central Serbia. Vucic said he wouldn't budge to opposition demands for a transitional government and accused his opponents of using students to try to seize power.

“We will beat them again,” said Vucic.“They (the opposition) don't know what to do but to use someone's children.”

In an apparent attempt to defuse the student-led protests, Vucic has been advertising what he said are “favorable” loans for young people to purchase apartments as well as attracting tens of thousands of doctors and other skilled people who have left the Balkan country for a better life in the West in recent years.

Prosecutors have arrested 13 people over the Novi Sad tragedy, including a government minister whose release later fueled public skepticism about the honesty of the investigation.

The weekslong protests reflect wider discontent with Vucic's rule. The populist leader formally says he wants to take Serbia into the European Union but has faced accusations of curbing democratic freedoms rather than advancing them.

Opposition parties have said a transitional government that would prepare a free and fair election could be a way out of the political tensions as ruling populists also have been accused of rigging past votes.

Serbia’s government has extended school winter holidays by starting them nearly a week earlier to grapple with widening student protests.

Classes at universities throughout the Balkan country have been suspended for weeks with students camping inside their faculty buildings. In recent days, more high school students have joined the movement. Occasional violence has erupted when pro-government thugs tried to disrupt the protests.

A group of farmers said Sunday that police took away the tractor which they drove into central Belgrade ahead of the protest. In addition to the farmers, Serbia’s students also have received nationwide support from all walks of life including their professors, media personalities, lawyers and prominent individuals.

Vucic initially accused the students of launching protests for money but later said he has fulfilled their demands, including publishing documentation relating to the renovation work at the Novi Sad station.

(AP)

[head-post]

French farmers protest Mercosur deal

French farmers have announced a new wave of protests next week against a planned European Union free trade agreement with trade bloc Mercosur, saying increased imports of agricultural products from South America will damage their livelihoods.

Farmers are planning protests on Monday against the EU’s free trade agreement with Mercosur, saying increased imports from South America will damage European Union agriculture, the head of France’s largest farm lobby FNSEA said on Wednesday.

It came after farmers in Belgium called for demonstrations near EU headquarters in Brussels on Wednesday. Several tractors stopped in the European neighbourhood on Schuman Square opposite the European Commission and EU Council buildings.

Farmers in Belgium, which has fallen on hard times, fear that a pending treaty with the Mercosur organisation, which brings together Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil, could lead to a further decline in sales for European growers “due to unfair competition.” According to Belgian trade unions, the pact, which has been under discussion for years, could be approved during the upcoming G20 meeting on November 18-19 in Brazil.

The rally in Brussels was coordinated by police, who blocked several streets in Brussels, but traffic congestion was avoided.

“Bad agreement”

FNSEA head Arnaud Rousseau told France Inter radio:

This trade agreement, which links part of the South American states to Europe, risks having dramatic consequences for agriculture. So from Monday for a few days we will be in all regions to make sure that France’s voice is heard during the G20 in Brazil, and we hope that all European countries will join us because it’s not about a country, it’s not about France, it’s about Europe.

But French farmers are not going to block roads and motorways as they did last year, when anger at competition from cheaper imports, including from EU ally Ukraine, and the burden of regulation led to large-scale protests across the EU. He also added:

We are not here to worry the French people, we are here to tell them that we are proud to feed them and to continue to produce in France.

On Sunday, the country’s agriculture minister Annie Genevard called the planned free trade deal between South American countries and the EU a “bad agreement” as it would allow “99,000 tonnes of beef, 180,000 tonnes of sugar and the same amount of poultry” into the country and create damaging competition for local producers.

Weather-ravaged harvests and outbreaks of livestock disease, as well as political deadlock following snap elections earlier this summer, have added to French farmers’ discontent.

Read more HERE

[bengiyo]

Love Tractor Eps 5 & 6 Stray Thoughts

Last week, Ye Chan taught Sun Yeol how to pick strawberries and then they held a class for kids. Sun Yeol is not good with kids and was super rude to a girl who already felt isolated from her peers. She ran away, but Sun Yeol found her and injured himself while trying to help her (even though he was the one who further alienated her). Ye Chan and the community rallied to take care of Sun Yeol while he was injured, and our poor farmer got his little heart broken when he learned that Sun Yeol maybe has a lover in Seoul.

Episode 5

Oh good. Ye Chan only had a partial blackout. I don’t like when characters don’t remember anything.

Still a fan of the village head. Recommending that Ye Chan back off of Sun Yeol if he’s taken is the right advice.

It’s actually very fun for Ye Chan to rush to Sun Yeol when he calls for help, because Sun Yeol asking for help seems like a big step for him.

Oh ho! A hot boy has arrived!

Alright, fuck Sun Yeol’s dad. He broke up two gay musicians and forced his son to give up music. You also slap your son in public like this?

I feel bad for Inseo. He found a creator he admired and grew close to him. The Koreans are determined to give me second lead syndrome.

Ope. Inseo moved on. What in The Red Violin (1998) is going on with this emotional whiplash this episode?

I love how obviously Ye Chan’s feelings emanate from him. I like seeing characters who never needed to learn to mask.

I don’t care for Inseo. Kindness costs so little. There’s no need to be rude.

This show is getting as bad as Thailand with the dramatic changes in lighting between scenes. It’s suddenly night time?

Even the doctor is mad about Inseo being here. He said, “Where’s big gay man who was taking care of you? This twink looks unreliable.”

That’s right, Ye Chan! Don’t let that mean twink convince Sun Yeol to go back to Seoul!

Episode 6

Ye Chan’s mom is so intense. She’s not the sit around and chat about our feelings type, I guess.

I like him telling Ye Chan to go inside and wait. I thrive on hope.

This breakup scene is pretty affective even with how little time we’ve spent with them. They both gave up things to be together and it just didn’t work.

Timeline is a bit hard to track, but it seems like they haven’t seen in each other in a while.

Big fan of the “sweat yourself into exhaustion so you can rest” approach. It’s the best part about volunteering for me.

Okay, Village Head, I see you and your veiled insinuations.

It’s a party!

It’s getting hot in here, so take off all your clothes!

Oh BL dream sequences, my belothed. At least this one was obvious.

Ye Chan is so helplessly gay. I love him.

Look at our brave farmer admitting his feelings even if he’s scared!

Okay, I will say I really liked the way Inseo was used this episode as a warm up for dealing with the dad stuff before the end of this. This show is actually pretty cute.

[oww666]

Belgian Farmers Tractors Rally: Voices from the Fields #belgium #farmer ... ...;.still going 

[alcoraplant]

Welsh farmers rally against IHT proposals

More than 200 tractors, trucks and other farming machinery gathered at the Royal Welsh Showground, as NFU Cymru led a powerful display of opposition to the UK government’s proposed changes to inheritance tax (IHT). The event, which brought together farmers and rural businesses from across Mid-Wales on 21 February, served as a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact on Wales’ rural economy of…

[towerblockers]

Farmers Protest Inheritance Tax Changes in York with 300 Participants, Including Children on Toy Tractors

Farmers Rally in York Against Government’s Proposed Inheritance Tax Changes On 15 February 2025, up to 300 farmers, along with children on toy tractors, marched through York to protest against the government’s controversial inheritance tax (IHT) proposals. These changes, introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, could devastate family-run farms across the UK, potentially imposing a 20% IHT on…

[peaksport]

Farmers protest live: Tractors to descend on London in third rally against Reeves’s Budget proposals

Farmers have taken two times so far on London Street to protest against inheritance tax changes (So wire) Your support helps us tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to great technology, it is independent of the field when the story is developing. Whether exploring the financial finance Elon MUSK Pro-Trump PAC or produce our latest documentary, “word”, which bright light on…

[meetxx]

Que-1:   Cell phones have become important tools for activism. Explain how cell phones give power to individuals to document and share social injustices and enable movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo to gain momentum. How does this ability change who has the power in society ? Any examples should be from the last 5 years.

Cell Phones as Tools for Activism

Cell phones are regarded as a critical means through which modern activism is empowered to document and share social injustices, therefore changing societal power dynamics. Recording incidents on the phone and instantly disseminating them across platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook gives people voices that do not need to travel first through the traditional media.

One major example from India is the 2020–2021 Farmers' Protest, in which cell phones were significant in garnering support and publicizing the government policies affecting millions of farmers. Protesters recorded marches, speeches, and incidents involving police brutality on their smartphones and shared them on social media using hashtags such as #FarmersProtest. Such videos assisted in bringing international attention to the matter, as popular figure like Rihanna and Diljit Dosanjh echoed the cause. This international attention put pressure on the Indian government to eventually repeal the now-controversial farm laws in late 2021.

Shifting Power Dynamics

Cell phones shift societies' power to allow marginalized voices to be heard and hold authorities accountable. Whereas media once decided what stories were told or covered, often ignoring grassroots movements, with smartphones, people can pass around that gatekeeper and create their own narrative.

In the case of the Farmers' Protest, cameras on cell phones ensured that police actions would be modified, given the real possibility of videos going viral. In one such instance, videos of police clashes during the tractor rally on January 26, 2021, went viral, leading to public outcry and forcing officials to be more transparent about the situation.

Conclusion

The Indian Farmers’ Protest exemplifies how cell phones empower individuals to challenge authority and mobilize support, fundamentally altering power structures in society. Movements like this demonstrate the power of mobile technology in bringing visibility to social injustices, amplifying marginalized voices, and holding authorities accountable. The Hawthorn Effect further highlights how visibility and observation through cell phones can drive accountability and systemic change

[master-john-uk]

A Christmas themed tractor rally is taking place in London tomorrow (16th December 2024), as a continuation of the farmers' protest against changes to tax laws.

Those taking part have been reminded to make sure their tractors are road legal, and to observe all road signs and temporary road closures which will be in place for their benefit.

Tractors taking part will also have to pay the London Congestion Charge... which I think is reasonable, considering the amount of traffic congestion they are likely to cause!

[head-post]

Farmers protest in Westminster against Labour’s inheritance tax plans

Hundreds of farmers descended on Westminster with tractors and tanks to protest against the Labour government’s proposed inheritance tax on farms worth over £1 million, according to The Independent.

The rally, organised by Save British Farming, saw vehicles lining Whitehall, stretching back to Trafalgar Square, as farmers demanded a rethink of the 20% inheritance tax rate announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves last year.

Protesters waved Union Jack flags and held banners supporting British farming, while four tanks were spotted at the demonstration. The event marks the third such protest since the tax plan was unveiled, with farmers warning that the policy could push the UK towards a food crisis.

Liz Webster, the protest organiser, stated that the rally aimed to pressure the government into negotiations. She accused Labour of “marching into a food crisis” and emphasised the importance of protecting family farms. Despite the outcry, Labour has so far refused to backtrack on its plans.

The protest coincided with a parliamentary debate on an e-petition signed by over 148,000 people, calling for the retention of current inheritance tax exemptions for working farms. Earlier in the day, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage addressed farmers en route to the protest, urging an end to “death taxes.” However, Webster criticised Farage for “jumping on the bandwagon,” noting that he was not invited to the event.

Farmers argue that the proposed tax could force many family-owned farms to sell their land, threatening the UK’s agricultural sector and food security. The protest highlights growing tensions between rural communities and the government over policies perceived as detrimental to farming livelihoods.

As the debate continues, the government faces mounting pressure to address farmers’ concerns and find a balance between fiscal policy and the sustainability of British agriculture.

Read more HERE

[mybharatguru]

Plan to hold a tractor rally on August 15 across the country... Farmers met Rahul Gandhi

Agricultural organizations across the country are planning to hold a tractor rally on August 15.A group of farmers from six states namely Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Punjab, Aryana and Uttar Pradesh met the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, at the Parliament House premises in Delhi today. This group consisted of 12 agricultural leaders.During this meeting, Congress…

[alcoholrehabilitationcentre]

Purana Tractor: Embracing the Legacy of Agricultural Machinery

In the world of agriculture, the "Purana tractor" stands as a testament to durability and reliability. This term, meaning "old tractor" in Hindi, reflects a rich history and a deep connection with farmers who have relied on these machines for decades. The Purana tractor is not just a piece of equipment; it's a symbol of resilience and an integral part of many farming communities.

Tractors revolutionized agriculture by making tasks like plowing, planting, and harvesting more efficient. The Purana tractor, often a vintage model from brands like Mahindra, John Deere, or Massey Ferguson, represents the early days of this mechanization. These tractors, built to last, have served multiple generations of farmers, a true testament to their engineering excellence.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Purana tractors is their simplicity. Unlike modern tractors equipped with advanced technology and electronics, these older models are mechanical marvels. They can be repaired and maintained with basic tools, making them accessible to farmers in remote areas with limited resources. This ease of maintenance has contributed significantly to their longevity and continued use.

Farmers often have a deep sentimental attachment to their Purana tractors. These machines have witnessed countless seasons, toiled through challenging weather, and played a crucial role in every harvest. For many, the Purana tractor is a family heirloom, passed down from one generation to the next. It's not uncommon to find a farmer reminiscing about their grandfather's tractor, still running strong with a little care and attention.

The Purana tractor also embodies sustainability in agriculture. In an era where the throwaway culture dominates, these tractors highlight the value of repairing and reusing rather than discarding. By keeping these old machines operational, farmers reduce waste and promote a more sustainable approach to farming.

Moreover, the Purana tractor has an economic significance. New tractors are a substantial investment, often out of reach for small-scale farmers. The Purana tractor, with its lower cost and proven reliability, provides an affordable alternative. This allows farmers to allocate their resources more efficiently, investing in other areas of their farms to boost productivity and sustainability.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vintage machinery, including Purana tractors. Enthusiasts and collectors appreciate the craftsmanship and history embedded in these machines. Tractor rallies and vintage machinery shows have become popular, celebrating the legacy of these agricultural workhorses.

In conclusion, the Purana tractor is more than just an old machine; it is a symbol of resilience, sustainability, and a connection to the past. These tractors, with their enduring reliability and simplicity, continue to play a vital role in agriculture, embodying a legacy that transcends generations. For many farmers, the Purana tractor is a cherished partner in their journey, a true emblem of the enduring spirit of agriculture.

[alcoraplant]

NFU secures key meeting with chancellor to discuss IHT

The NFU has secured a meeting with chancellor Rachel Reeves on Tuesday 18 February to discuss the government’s controversial plans to introduce a 20% inheritance tax (IHT) on farm assets worth more than £1m. This crucial meeting follows mass farmer protests, including a record-breaking tractor rally in London on 10 February, which saw 1,400 tractors and 35,000 farmers demand a rethink on the…

[towerblockers]

Scotland's Tractor Uprising: Will Inheritance Tax Drive Family Farms into Oblivion

Imagine the serene Scottish countryside, a tapestry of rolling hills and verdant fields, now set to be disrupted by the roar of tractors. This weekend, Scotland’s farmers are not just tilling their lands but rallying against what they perceive as a catastrophic policy decision by the government. The new inheritance tax, designed with the finesse of a blunt axe, is said to endanger the very…