ISS Previous Year Paper 2018 GS Solution Question 3(d) Farmers' Suicides and the Agrarian Crisis in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2018 GS Solution Question 3(d) Farmers' Suicides and Agrarian Crisis in India. Detailed answer discussing the causes of farmers' suicides and measures needed to address the agrarian crisis.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2018 GS Solution Question 3(d) Farmers' Suicides and the Agrarian Crisis in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2018 GS Solution Question

Q.3(d) Farmers' suicides in India are the result of agrarian crisis. Give reasons for it and suggest remedial measures.

Answer :

Farmers' suicides are often viewed as a manifestation of the broader agrarian crisis affecting Indian agriculture. Several economic, social, and environmental factors contribute to this problem.

One of the major reasons is indebtedness. Many farmers rely on loans to meet cultivation expenses, and crop failures often make repayment difficult. Low and unstable agricultural incomes further worsen financial stress.

Another important factor is the uncertainty of agricultural production due to droughts, floods, irregular monsoons, pest attacks, and climate change. Rising input costs for seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation have increased the burden on farmers.

Inadequate access to institutional credit, poor market infrastructure, fluctuating crop prices, and limited insurance coverage also contribute to economic insecurity. Small and marginal farmers are particularly vulnerable because of fragmented landholdings and low productivity.

To address the agrarian crisis, measures such as strengthening crop insurance schemes, expanding institutional credit, improving irrigation facilities, ensuring remunerative prices through effective MSP implementation, and promoting agricultural diversification are necessary.

Investment in rural infrastructure, agricultural technology, storage facilities, and farmer awareness programs can further enhance resilience and reduce distress.

Conclusion

Farmers' suicides are a serious socio-economic issue linked to structural weaknesses in Indian agriculture. A comprehensive strategy focusing on income security, risk management, and sustainable agricultural development is essential to address the agrarian crisis effectively.