Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Farmers' movements in India represent a long history of agrarian unrest stemming from issues of land ownership, debt, exploitation, and inadequate government support. These movements, often reflecting broader socio-political changes, have played a significant role in shaping agricultural policies and rural development. From localized rebellions against colonial revenue systems to large-scale protests against liberalization policies, Indian farmers have consistently voiced their concerns. The recent farmers’ protest against the Farm Acts 2020, which led to their eventual repeal, underscores the continuing relevance and potency of these movements in modern India.
Early Phase (Pre-Independence): 1857-1947
The initial phase of farmers’ movements was largely reactive to British colonial policies. These movements were often localized and characterized by spontaneous uprisings.
- Indigo Revolt (1859-60): A peasant uprising in Bengal against the oppressive practices of indigo planters.
- Deccan Riots (1875-76): Triggered by the high revenue demands and the exploitative practices of moneylenders in the Deccan region.
- Peasant Movements in Punjab (1905-1922): Focused on issues like land alienation and high rents, led by figures like Baba Ram Singh.
- Eka Movement (1921-22): A non-violent movement in Uttar Pradesh against excessive rent and illegal levies.
These movements, though largely unsuccessful in achieving immediate goals, laid the foundation for future organized struggles.
Post-Independence Phase (1947-1980s):
The post-independence era saw the emergence of more organized and politically conscious farmers’ movements, influenced by socialist and communist ideologies.
- Tebhaga Movement (1946-47): A movement in Bengal demanding a share of the crop for the sharecroppers.
- Communist Party-led movements in Kerala and West Bengal: Focused on land reforms and the rights of agricultural laborers.
- Naxalite Movement (1967 onwards): Emerged in West Bengal and spread to other parts of India, advocating for radical land redistribution.
- Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Formation (1981): Led by Mahendra Singh Tikait, the BKU emerged as a powerful force in North India, focusing on issues like electricity rates, irrigation, and sugarcane prices.
Liberalization and Globalization Phase (1990s – Present):
The liberalization of the Indian economy in the 1990s brought new challenges for farmers, leading to increased protests against globalization and neo-liberal policies.
- Farmers’ Protests against WTO (1990s-2000s): Farmers opposed the agricultural policies of the World Trade Organization, fearing increased competition and reduced government support.
- Vidarbha Farmer Suicides (2000s): A series of farmer suicides in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra due to debt and crop failure brought attention to the agrarian crisis.
- Farmers’ Protests against Land Acquisition (2007-2011): Protests against the acquisition of agricultural land for industrial projects, such as the Tata Nano project in Singur, West Bengal.
- 2020-21 Farmers' Protest: Against the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020; and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. Led to the repeal of the laws.
Key Features of Farmers’ Movements
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Localized vs. National | Early movements were largely localized, while later movements became more national in scope. |
| Ideological Influences | Socialism, communism, and Gandhian ideologies have played a significant role in shaping farmers’ movements. |
| Demands | Demands have evolved from land ownership and revenue reduction to issues like fair prices, debt relief, and protection from globalization. |
| Methods of Protest | Methods have ranged from non-violent protests and civil disobedience to more radical forms of resistance. |
Conclusion
Farmers’ movements in India have been a recurring feature of the country’s socio-political landscape. They reflect the deep-seated agrarian crisis and the vulnerability of farmers to economic and political forces. While these movements have often faced challenges and setbacks, they have consistently forced the government to address the concerns of the agricultural sector. The future of these movements will likely be shaped by issues like climate change, technological advancements, and the changing nature of agricultural policies, demanding a more sustainable and equitable approach to farming.
Answer Length
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