28 Apr. 24: India’s farmers continue to grapple with the grim reality of unmet promises as the Modi government’s pledges remain largely unfulfilled. Despite assurances to provide farmers with fair compensation and double their income by 2022, along with loan waivers and interest-free loans, these commitments remain elusive. Shockingly, over the past decade, an average of 30 farmers per day have tragically ended their lives, totaling 1,74,000 suicides, according to government figures.
The failure to implement recommendations from the Swaminathan Commission, coupled with budget cuts in agriculture and rising input costs, has exacerbated the plight of farmers. While corporate debts worth billions have been forgiven, farmers’ loans remain a burden, with no relief in sight. Additionally, essential aid from the National Relief Fund for farmers affected by natural disasters has been neglected, further deepening their distress.
The government’s push for crop insurance, controlled by private entities, has only added to the exploitation of farmers. Meanwhile, rural-to-urban migration is on the rise, fueled by low crop prices and mounting debts. The government’s proposed agricultural laws, including amendments to the Land Act, threaten farmers’ livelihoods by facilitating land acquisition for corporations.
Despite prolonged and widespread protests by farmers, including the historic demonstration in Delhi, the government has remained unyielding. Tragically, 752 farmers lost their lives during the protests, highlighting the severity of the situation. Even in the face of egregious incidents like the Lakhimpur Kheri tragedy, where eight farmers were deliberately killed, justice remains elusive.
While promises of redress were made ahead of elections, the Modi government’s inaction has only deepened farmers’ disillusionment. A year later, farmers are still waiting for their demands to be met, underscoring the urgency for tangible action to address their grievances.
