The nationwide protest by farmers brings to the fore issues of distress and problems in agriculture. While attempts by the state to address the problems through the three farm laws are being met with resistance, and much discussion has happened on their merits and demerits, it is important to step back and understand the crisis in agriculture and also look at some significant initiatives that could be taken to modernise the value chain, and examine where markets and private sector could come in, without necessarily compromising farmer interests. The state has been asking farmers to provide a clause-by-clause objection to the laws. But if we look at the legislations closely, it is evident that it is impossible to provide a clause-by-clause objection on an issue that has fundamental problems at the conceptual level. The farmers are correct in asking for the repeal of the three acts, as a repair is not going to address the fundamental issue at all.