Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Farmers' movements in Independent India represent a recurring theme of agrarian distress and socio-economic inequalities. Rooted in historical grievances related to land ownership, indebtedness, and exploitation, these movements have consistently challenged prevailing agricultural policies and power structures. From the immediate post-independence period marked by localized uprisings against feudal remnants, to the more recent nationwide protests against the farm laws of 2020-21, farmers have utilized various forms of collective action to voice their concerns and demand justice. Understanding these movements is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of rural India and the challenges of agricultural development.
Phase 1: Early Years (1950s-1970s) – Localized Uprisings & Land Reforms
The initial decades after independence witnessed localized peasant movements primarily focused on the implementation of land reforms. These movements arose from the continued existence of zamindari systems and tenancy arrangements despite the abolition of intermediaries.
- Telangana Movement (1946-1951): Though starting before independence, its impact continued into the early years. It was a communist-led uprising against the Nizam’s rule and feudal landlords, demanding land redistribution.
- Punjab Peasant Movements (1950s-60s): Focused on securing tenancy rights and resisting high rents.
- Naxalite Movement (1967 onwards): Originating in West Bengal, it initially focused on land redistribution and the rights of sharecroppers, later evolving into a broader revolutionary movement.
Government response included enacting land reform legislation, but implementation was often weak due to political opposition from landlords and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Phase 2: The Rise of ‘Green Revolution’ & its Discontents (1970s-1990s)
The Green Revolution, while increasing agricultural production, also brought about new challenges. Increased reliance on inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, coupled with unequal access to irrigation and credit, led to increased indebtedness and regional disparities.
- Shetkari Sanghatana (Maharashtra, 1970s-80s): Led by Sharad Joshi, this movement focused on obtaining fair prices for agricultural produce and challenging the existing agricultural marketing system. It advocated for a ‘price-cost’ parity.
- Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (1980s-90s): Similar demands to Shetkari Sanghatana, focusing on price support and credit facilities.
Government responded with price support schemes and increased credit availability, but these measures were often inadequate to address the growing agrarian crisis.
Phase 3: Liberalization & Globalization – Farmer Distress & Protests (1990s-2010s)
Economic liberalization and globalization exposed Indian farmers to global competition, leading to increased vulnerability to price fluctuations and market forces. The withdrawal of state support and the rise of private agricultural businesses exacerbated the crisis.
- Farmers’ Suicides (1990s onwards): A tragic consequence of agrarian distress, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Punjab.
- National Farmers’ Platform (2000s): A coalition of various farmers’ organizations demanding debt waivers, fair prices, and investment in irrigation.
- Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) protests (various states): Focused on issues like water scarcity, electricity tariffs, and agricultural input costs.
Government responses included debt waiver schemes (like the 2008 waiver) and increased investment in irrigation projects, but these were often seen as temporary measures.
Phase 4: The Farm Laws Protests (2020-2021) – A National Movement
The enactment of the three farm laws in 2020 sparked a massive nationwide protest led by farmers, primarily from Punjab and Haryana. The laws aimed to liberalize agricultural markets but were perceived as detrimental to farmers’ interests, particularly regarding minimum support prices (MSPs) and the role of the Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs).
- Key Demands: Repeal of the farm laws, legal guarantee for MSPs, and withdrawal of the Electricity Amendment Bill.
- Protest Methods: Road blockades, rail rokos, sit-ins at Delhi borders, and nationwide strikes.
The government eventually repealed the farm laws in November 2021, marking a significant victory for the farmers’ movement. This movement highlighted the power of collective action and the importance of farmer representation in policy-making.
| Phase | Key Issues | Dominant Actors | Government Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1950s-1970s | Land Reforms, Tenancy Rights | Local Peasant Leaders, Communist Parties | Land Reform Legislation (often poorly implemented) |
| 1970s-1990s | Green Revolution Discontents, Input Costs | Shetkari Sanghatana, Raitha Sanghas | Price Support Schemes, Increased Credit |
| 1990s-2010s | Liberalization, Debt, Suicides | National Farmers’ Platform, BKU | Debt Waivers, Irrigation Projects |
| 2020-2021 | Farm Laws, MSP Guarantee | Farmers’ Unions (Punjab, Haryana) | Repeal of Farm Laws |
Conclusion
Farmers' movements in India have been a persistent force for social and economic change, reflecting the ongoing struggles of the agrarian community. These movements have evolved over time, adapting to changing socio-economic conditions and political landscapes. While some movements have achieved limited success, they have consistently raised awareness about the challenges faced by farmers and forced the government to address agrarian issues. The recent farm laws protests demonstrate the continued relevance of farmers’ movements in shaping agricultural policy and ensuring the well-being of the rural population. A sustainable solution requires a holistic approach that addresses issues of land ownership, access to credit, fair prices, and investment in rural infrastructure.
Answer Length
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