The farmers’ movements in Punjab have a rich history, rooted in resistance to oppressive laws. These movements have evolved over the decades, adapting to changing political landscapes and societal needs. The recent protests reflect ongoing struggles for farmers’ rights, particularly in response to agricultural policies.
Historical Context of Farmer Movements
The farmer movement in Punjab began in the early 20th century. One notable event was the Pagri Sambhal Jatta Movement in 1907. This movement, led by Ajit Singh, aimed to oppose British laws harming farmers. It resulted in legal amendments. Subsequent movements, like the PEPSU Muzara movement from 1939 to 1942, focused on land ownership rights. In 1943, the All India Kisan Sabha established a Punjab unit, marking a formal organisation of farmers.
Formation of Farmer Unions
The Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) was formed in Punjab in 1980. It emerged from the earlier Punjab Khetibari Zamindara Union (PKZU), founded in 1972. The BKU aimed to address various farming issues but faced challenges during the 1980s due to state militancy. This period limited public gatherings and protests, hindering major mobilisations.
Factionalism Within Unions
In 1989, the BKU split into factions led by Ajmer Singh Lakhowal and Balbir Singh Rajewal. This division was driven by differing political alignments and strategies. Over time, more factions emerged, such as BKU Ekta, denoting ideological differences. By 2017, Punjab had approximately 35 farmer unions, each representing various interests.
Recent Protests and Current Status
The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) coalition formed in 2020 to oppose three controversial farm laws. These laws were repealed in November 2021 after extensive protests. Currently, the SKM remains active, with 37 unions in Punjab. New factions like SKM Non-Political and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have also emerged, each representing over 100 unions nationwide.
Current Protests in Punjab
Since February 2024, SKM Non-Political and KMM have organised protests at Punjab-Haryana borders. They are demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. The police response to these protests has been , with numerous leaders detained. This marks one of the largest police actions against farmers in recent times.
Recent Police Actions
On March 4 and 5, 2025, Punjab police detained many farmer leaders, including senior SKM members. This unprecedented action reflects the intensifying tensions between the government and farmer unions. Leaders have expressed concern over the increasing crackdown on peaceful protests.
Future of Farmer Movements
The future of farmer movements in Punjab remains uncertain. The ongoing protests highlight the farmers’ resolve to fight for their rights. The interplay between government policies and farmer unions will shape the landscape of agriculture in Punjab.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of the Green Revolution on agricultural practices in Punjab.
- Discuss the role of farmer unions in shaping agricultural policies in India.
- Critically discuss the socio-economic implications of agrarian distress in India.
- With suitable examples, discuss the influence of political parties on farmer protests in Punjab.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the impact of the Green Revolution on agricultural practices in Punjab.
- The Green Revolution introduced high-yielding varieties of seeds, leading to increased crop production.
- It promoted the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, changing farming methods.
- Irrigation infrastructure was enhanced, allowing for more efficient water management.
- Farm mechanization increased, reducing labor needs and changing employment patterns.
- However, it also led to environmental concerns, such as soil degradation and water scarcity.
2. Discuss the role of farmer unions in shaping agricultural policies in India.
- Farmer unions advocate for the rights and interests of farmers, influencing policy decisions at various levels.
- They mobilize farmers for protests and negotiations, bringing attention to agricultural issues.
- Unions participate in dialogues with the government, impacting legislation related to farming practices and subsidies.
- They raise awareness about issues like Minimum Support Price (MSP) and land rights.
- Through collective bargaining, unions can secure better terms for farmers in the agricultural sector.
3. Critically discuss the socio-economic implications of agrarian distress in India.
- Agrarian distress leads to increased farmer suicides, reflecting severe mental health issues and economic despair.
- It results in rural poverty, affecting livelihoods and leading to migration to urban areas for work.
- Declining agricultural productivity impacts food security and increases dependence on imports.
- Social unrest and protests arise, challenging governance and policy stability.
- Long-term agrarian distress can hinder overall economic growth and development in rural regions.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the influence of political parties on farmer protests in Punjab.
- Political parties often align with farmer unions to gain support during elections, influencing protest dynamics.
- The Akali Dal has historically supported farmers’ issues, affecting their mobilization strategies.
- National parties, like the Congress and BJP, have also engaged with farmer unions to push their agendas.
- Protests against farm laws saw participation from multiple political factions, showcasing their influence.
- Political rhetoric can either amplify farmers’ grievances or undermine their movements, affecting protest outcomes.
