The Importance of Farming in India's Strategic Policy and the Challenges Faced by Farmers
India, a country that is often referred to as a 'farming-oriented' nation, has long struggled with the importance given to its agricultural sector and the individuals who are the backbone of this industry. In a world where the worth of a person is often equated to the money they earn, the structural and policy issues haunting the farming community in India take a back seat.
Who Undertakes Farming in India?
Living in the rural parts of India, farming or becoming a farm labor is often considered one of the easiest means to earn a living. It is a common misconception that when there are better earning options available, very few people opt for farming. This is perpetuated by the notion that farmers are considered failures, owed little respect, and seen as a drain on resources. Unemployment means there is always an excess supply of people willing to work in the farm sector, often resulting in a negative perception of farmers and farm labor.
Challenges Faced by the Farming Community
The involvement of British colonial policies in shaping the Indian government's agricultural policy has had a lasting effect, particularly in favoring corporate farming over traditional farming methods. This trend continues, with farmers' land being captivated through various means, such as loans, leading to a significant loss of agricultural land.
Even in today's scenario, farmers face numerous challenges that hinder their success. Many government schemes aimed at supporting farmers are either not well publicized or are not explained well enough to reach the intended beneficiaries. Farmers often lack access to information about these schemes. Additionally, when a farmer does face financial difficulties, there is a lack of support from the government or society.
The Marriage Market and Farmers
The societal stigma attached to farmers is evident in the matrimonial market. In India, getting a girl to marry someone from a farming background is often seen as difficult. Even if an IT graduate or someone involved in greenhouse farming earns more than Rs 20 lakh per year, they may face similar difficulties. This is a stark example of the broader societal issues faced by farmers and their families.
Government and Corporate Exploitation
According to critics, the Indian government frequently exploits the ignorance of farmers for its financial needs. Farmers often borrow in large sums without adequate support or resources to repay the loans. Despite this, the government does not offer the same level of financial support to farmers as it does to corporate entities or even the software industry. Farmers are also often unaware of the market prices and demands of their products, leading to a lack of transparency and fairness in the agricultural market.
Groundwater Crisis and Farmer's Struggles
The exploitation of groundwater by corporates and urban dwellers further complicates the plight of farmers. With dwindling water resources, it becomes increasingly difficult for farmers to achieve good yields. This places further pressure on them to use chemical fertilizers to ensure a quick harvest and meet their loan obligations. The lack of government intervention and transparency has exacerbated the situation, with many farmers resorting to suicide as a result of these mounting pressures.
It is crucial for both the government and the public to come together to address these issues. By providing better access to information, financial support, and market transparency, we can help farmers gain the recognition and respect they deserve. After all, farming is not just a profession; it is a way of life that sustains millions of Indians and contributes significantly to the nation's economy.
Conclusion
The plight of farmers in India underscores the challenges of balancing economic development with social and environmental responsibilities. The time has come for a comprehensive policy overhaul that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of farmers. Only through collective action can we ensure a sustainable future for the agricultural sector and the millions of families who depend on it.