Farmers’ Protests and Supreme Court Committee Mandate

The ongoing farmers’ protests at the Punjab-Haryana border have garnered attention as the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Political) recently declined to engage with a Supreme Court-appointed committee. This committee was established to address the farmers’ demands and facilitate discussions. The refusal to meet marks the complexities surrounding the agricultural crisis in India.

Background of the Protests

Farmers have been protesting against various agricultural policies and demands for better support. The protests have been particularly intense in Punjab and Haryana. The farmers seek assurances regarding minimum support prices and relief from mounting debts. Their agitation has created disruptions, including blockades on national highways.

Supreme Court Committee Formation

The Supreme Court formed a high-powered committee on September 2, 2024. The committee’s primary objective is to engage with the farmers and address their concerns. It aims to facilitate the removal of blockades to alleviate public distress. The court hopes the committee will mediate effectively between the farmers and the state governments.

Committee’s Mandate

The committee’s mandate includes reaching out to agitating farmers and examining broader agricultural issues. It aims to understand the challenges faced by farmers and non-agricultural communities in Punjab and Haryana. The Supreme Court emphasised the need for empathy towards marginalised sections of society that contribute to agriculture.

Composition of the Committee

The committee is chaired by Justice (retd.) Nawab Singh, a former judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Other members include BS Sandhu, an ex-Director General of Police; Devinder Sharma, an agriculture expert; Prof. Ranjit Singh Ghumman; and Dr Sukhpal Singh. The members are recognised for their integrity and expertise in agriculture.

Initial Findings of the Committee

The committee submitted its first report on November 22, 2024. It identified key factors contributing to agrarian distress, such as stagnant yields, rising costs, and inadequate marketing systems. Recommendations included legalising minimum support prices and providing direct income support to farmers.

Current Status and Future Directions

The committee is preparing a second report focused on increasing farm income. It has been meeting with various stakeholders, including agricultural departments and policy experts. The upcoming meetings are crucial for gathering insights and formulating effective solutions to the agrarian crisis.

Impact of Agrarian Distress

The agrarian crisis has led to rise in farmer suicides in India. Over 4 lakh farmers have reportedly taken their lives since 1995. In Punjab alone, a survey indicated over 16,000 suicides from 2000 to 2015. The ongoing crisis demands urgent attention to prevent further tragedies.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the implications of the ongoing farmers’ protests on India’s agricultural policies.
2. Critically examine the role of the Supreme Court in mediating agricultural disputes in India.
3. What are the primary factors contributing to agrarian distress in India? Explain with examples.
4. What measures can be taken to improve the economic conditions of farmers in India? Discuss the role of government policies.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the implications of the ongoing farmers’ protests on India’s agricultural policies.

1. The protests highlight the farmers’ discontent with current agricultural policies, emphasizing the need for reforms.
2. They have drawn national attention to issues like Minimum Support Price (MSP) and debt relief, prompting policy discussions.
3. Protests may lead to changes in government approaches towards agricultural regulations and support systems.
4. Increased public awareness and media coverage can influence political agendas regarding agricultural welfare.
5. Potential for long-term policy shifts aimed at addressing systemic issues faced by farmers, encouraging sustainable agriculture.

2. Critically examine the role of the Supreme Court in mediating agricultural disputes in India.

1. The Supreme Court acts as an impartial mediator, aiming to balance farmers’ rights and public interest.
2. It has established committees to facilitate dialogue between farmers and the government, promoting negotiations.
3. Judicial interventions can lead to policy changes, as seen with the formation of the high-powered committee.
4. The court’s involvement can enhance transparency and accountability in addressing agrarian issues.
5. However, reliance on judicial mediation may not always lead to timely resolutions, causing frustration among stakeholders.

3. What are the primary factors contributing to agrarian distress in India? Explain with examples.

1. Stagnant agricultural yields – Lack of innovation and investment has resulted in minimal growth in crop productivity.
2. Rising costs – Increased input costs for seeds, fertilizers, and labor have squeezed farmers’ margins.
3. Debt burden – Many farmers face heavy institutional and non-institutional debts, leading to financial distress.
4. Inadequate marketing systems – Poor access to markets and price volatility hinder farmers’ ability to sell produce profitably.
5. Climate change – Unpredictable weather patterns and natural disasters exacerbate agricultural challenges, impacting livelihoods.

4. What measures can be taken to improve the economic conditions of farmers in India? Discuss the role of government policies.

1. Implementing guaranteed Minimum Support Prices (MSP) to ensure fair compensation for farmers’ produce.
2. Providing direct income support schemes to alleviate financial burdens and improve living standards.
3. Investing in agricultural infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and storage facilities, to enhance productivity.
4. Promoting access to credit and financial services to help farmers manage debts and invest in their farms.
5. Encouraging sustainable farming practices and diversification to reduce dependency on single crops and enhance resilience.