Police fire tear gas at protesting Indian farmers, government offers talks

"Indian police fire tear gas and water cannons at farmers marching to Delhi for better crop prices, sparking fresh talks."

Farmers in India have been marching towards New Delhi to demand better crop prices, but they were met with tear gas and water cannons by police at the Shambhu barrier, a border crossing between Punjab and Haryana states. The farmers, who are an influential voting bloc, have been demanding higher prices for their crops backed by law, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot afford to ignore their demands with general elections approaching. The police action prompted a new offer of talks from the government, but the farmers have rejected previous proposals and are determined to march to Delhi peacefully. The situation has caused traffic disruptions and heightened security in the region. This is reminiscent of similar protests two years ago, which led to the repeal of a set of farm laws by Modi's government. The farmers remain steadfast in their demands, and the government is seeking to maintain peace and open discussions with the farmers' leaders.