Reasons behind the frustration of India’s farmers and scientists

Source: The post reasons behind the frustration of India’s farmers and scientists has been created, based on the article “Why farmers remain unhappy with the government” published in “Indian Express” on 22nd November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture

Context: The article criticizes the government for its lack of meaningful agricultural reforms. It highlights policy failures like nano urea, ignored farmer concerns, and a lack of trust-building. It urges the government to prioritize farmers, seek diverse ideas, and rebuild trust. India’s National Mission on Natural Farming

Why are India’s farmers and scientists frustrated?

1. Policy Inaction: The government has not introduced meaningful agricultural reforms, despite its intentions, leaving issues like biotech crops and natural farming underfunded and unresolved.
2. Failure of Nano Urea: Farmers rejected nano urea outright. Manufacturers had to increase its nitrogen content by 400%, exposing its ineffectiveness. Agricultural universities refuse to endorse it.
3. Unadopted Initiatives: Out of 109 climate-resilient seed varieties launched by ICAR, scientists expect less than five to be adopted commercially.
4. Distrust and Exploitation: Farmers face fertilizer shortages and are forced to buy nano urea to access subsidized fertilizers, eroding trust.
5. Ignored Feedback: Ministers remain inaccessible to farmers and scientists, missing opportunities for innovative solutions and feedback from the ground.
6. Political Priorities: Focus on controlling food inflation sacrifices long-term agricultural interests for electoral gains.

For detailed information on Why are Farmer’s Protesting Globally and in India read this article here

What should be done?

1. The government must actively seek ideas from those outside the power structure, such as farmers and independent experts.
2. Listening to feedback can prevent policy failures.
3. Rebuilding trust with farmers is vital for reform success and long-term agricultural development.

Question for practice:

Discuss the reasons behind the frustration of India’s farmers and scientists with government agricultural policies and suggest measures to address these issues.