International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Era Lamba, Tanvi Sharma and Bas Kaur

abstract
Agricultural distress in India presents a multifaceted challenge, marked by farmer suicides, declining incomes, and unequal resource access, posing a threat to rural livelihoods and national food security. The latest statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau reveal a 3.7% increase in suicides in India in 2022 compared to 2021, with 11,290 recorded cases and a staggering realization that on average, one farmer committed suicide every hour. Factors such as fragmented land holdings, unpredictable weather patterns, inadequate credit facilities, and market volatility exacerbate the problem. Rooted in a complex interplay of policies, market forces, and environmental challenges, agrarian distress disproportionately affects small and marginal farmers who constitute a significant portion of India's rural population. The consequences extend beyond the agricultural sector, impacting social cohesion and economic growth. The present study relied on secondary data obtained from a variety of sources including books, newspapers, review articles, academic papers, and reports issued by governmental and non-governmental organisations. Addressing this crisis requires holistic solutions, including policy reforms, investment in rural infrastructure, sustainable agricultural practices, and social safety nets to mitigate the vulnerabilities faced by farmers and ensure the long-term viability of India's agricultural sector.