Do it yourself

Continuing from yesterday (see Farm sector economics in India - 3 ) Yesterday, I suggested 10 illustrative farm level reforms that need to be implemented "urgently, vigorously, simultaneously", along with the necessary policy level and social level reforms to have a positive structural shift in the conditions of the farmers in India. It is critical for ensuring sustainable higher economic growth and realization of the objective of self reliance. Policy level reforms There was this feudal lord, who had enslaved a number of peasants on different pretexts. He would make them toil hard the whole day and give two inadequate meals to survive. Occasionally, on festivals, birthdays of his children, his marriage anniversary, and death anniversary of his parents, he would treat them with a good meal and sweets. Once in 3-4yrs, during winters, he would give them new blankets so that they do not die of cold. In return, the bonded peasants were expected to hai...

Continuing from yesterday ( see here ) Before planning for any reform in the India's form sector, it is critical to understand the key characteristics of the India's farm sector. To be successful, any strategy, plan, policies and programs must be in congruence with such characteristics. Unfortunately, most of the policy initiatives and programs implemented in past couple of decades have not been congruent with the characteristics of the farm sector. The following are some of the typical characteristics of the India's farm sector which have been hindering the growth and profitability of the sector and large proportion of population associated with the farming and allied activities. Farm sector of India As per the 6th Economic Census (2014) and Agriculture Census of India (2017), and NSSO (2013) data the following are the broad contours of the farm sector of India: Non-farm activities 1.     There are about 3.5cr rural commercial (no...