GS3 – Agriculture
Context:
Erratic monsoons and increasing wildlife intrusions are severely impacting farm incomes. An integrated and timely response is necessary to safeguard farmer livelihoods.
Major Challenges
- Crop Damage from Nature and Wildlife:
- Monsoon Irregularities: Unpredictable rainfall patterns have reduced sowing (e.g., 2018 Kharif sowing declined by 9.7%).
- Wildlife Raids: Animals like blackbucks, wild boars, and elephants frequently destroy standing crops.
- Increased Costs, Limited Returns:
Farmers invest heavily in irrigation during dry spells and in protective measures (fencing, guarding), raising input costs with poor recovery. - Inadequate Compensation:
For example, Maharashtra suffers estimated losses of ₹10,000–40,000 crore annually from wildlife damage, while only ₹210 crore compensation was disbursed between 2020 and 2024. - Declining Crop Diversity:
Over half of affected farmers have abandoned at least one crop due to repeated failures, reducing biodiversity and self-sufficiency. - Livelihood Insecurity:
Continued losses prompt migration and agricultural abandonment, weakening rural economies and employment.
Government Responses
- Compensation Legislation:
Maharashtra’s Compensation Act (2023) allows claims for wildlife-induced crop damage. - Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):
Offers crop insurance coverage against weather-related damage across India. - National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):
Promotes climate-resilient practices such as efficient water use, soil health management, and rain-fed agriculture. - Multi-Department Panchnama:
A joint process by forest, agriculture, and revenue departments to assess and approve wildlife damage claims. - Technology Integration:
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Agromet advisory services support weather planning. Maharashtra is exploring tech solutions to monitor wildlife movements and crop damage.