Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Dryland farming, also known as rainfed agriculture, constitutes a significant portion of India’s agricultural landscape, covering approximately 68% of the total cultivated area. It is characterized by limited rainfall, high evapotranspiration rates, and inherent risks of crop failure. These regions are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, leading to increased water stress and agricultural instability. Consequently, these areas have witnessed a disproportionately high incidence of farmer suicides, a complex issue rooted in a confluence of ecological, economic, and social factors. This answer will map the principal dryland farming areas in India and analyze the key drivers behind the tragic phenomenon of farmer suicides in these regions.
Principal Areas of Dryland Farming in India
Dryland farming is predominantly practiced in regions receiving less than 750 mm of annual rainfall. These areas are largely concentrated in the following regions (as of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023):
(Source: Adapted from various sources including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and agricultural maps of India)
- Rajasthan: The entire state, particularly the western part, falls under arid and semi-arid zones.
- Gujarat: Saurashtra and Kachchh regions are heavily reliant on rainfed agriculture.
- Maharashtra: Marathwada and Vidarbha regions are severely affected by rainfall variability and drought.
- Karnataka: Northern Karnataka, including the districts of Bijapur, Gulbarga, and Raichur, experiences frequent droughts.
- Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh and many districts of Telangana are characterized by dryland farming.
- Tamil Nadu: Southern districts like Ramanathapuram, Virudhunagar, and Sivaganga are dependent on monsoon rains.
- Madhya Pradesh: Malwa Plateau and Bundelkhand regions face water scarcity.
Factors Contributing to Farmer Suicides in Dryland Areas
1. Ecological Factors
The inherent ecological vulnerabilities of dryland areas are a primary driver of farmer distress:
- Rainfall Variability: Erratic and unpredictable monsoon patterns lead to frequent droughts and crop failures.
- Water Scarcity: Limited groundwater availability and inadequate irrigation infrastructure exacerbate water stress.
- Soil Degradation: Overexploitation of land resources and lack of soil conservation practices contribute to soil erosion and reduced fertility.
- Climate Change: Increasing temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are intensifying the frequency and severity of droughts.
2. Economic Factors
Economic pressures further compound the ecological challenges:
- Debt Burden: Farmers often rely on informal credit sources with high interest rates, leading to a cycle of debt. The 2019 RBI report on farmer debt highlighted the increasing indebtedness in states like Maharashtra and Telangana.
- Low Crop Yields: Dryland farming typically results in lower crop yields compared to irrigated agriculture, reducing income potential.
- Market Volatility: Fluctuations in agricultural commodity prices and lack of access to fair markets leave farmers vulnerable to economic losses.
- Lack of Diversification: Limited opportunities for alternative livelihoods in rural areas restrict farmers’ options.
- Rising Input Costs: Increasing costs of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides erode profit margins.
3. Socio-Psychological Factors
Beyond ecological and economic factors, socio-psychological issues play a significant role:
- Social Stigma: The stigma associated with debt and failure can lead to feelings of shame and hopelessness.
- Lack of Social Support: Limited access to mental health services and social support networks exacerbates psychological distress.
- Family Pressure: The burden of supporting families and meeting societal expectations can contribute to stress and anxiety.
- Distress Migration: The desperation to escape poverty and debt often leads to distress migration, disrupting family structures.
4. Government Policies and Implementation Gaps
While the government has implemented various schemes to address farmer distress, implementation gaps and policy shortcomings persist:
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Provides income support to small and marginal farmers, but the amount may be insufficient to address significant debt.
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Crop insurance scheme, but issues with claim settlement and coverage remain.
- National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Aims to promote sustainable farming practices, but adoption rates are slow.
- Lack of Effective Irrigation Infrastructure: Despite investments in irrigation projects, many dryland areas remain under-irrigated.
Conclusion
Farmer suicides in India’s dryland areas are a complex tragedy stemming from a confluence of ecological vulnerabilities, economic pressures, and socio-psychological factors. Addressing this issue requires a holistic approach that combines ecological restoration, economic empowerment, and social support. Strengthening irrigation infrastructure, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring fair market access, providing affordable credit, and improving mental health services are crucial steps. A long-term solution necessitates a paradigm shift towards climate-resilient agriculture and rural development, ensuring the well-being and dignity of farmers in these vulnerable regions.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.