The Crisis of Farmer Suicides in India: Understanding the Issue and Exploring Solutions

A Personal Account of the Challenging Circumstances

This is not just a story—it's a true story. This is what I witnessed at the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee market (APMC) in Shahapur, Thane. It was there that I truly understood the gravity of the situation faced by farmers, which differed from what the media portrayed. This experience led me to choose a project focused on working in the vegetable business.

The Background: A Glimpse into Farmers' Lives

Let's examine the background first. After months of hard work on the farm, it's time for a family to take their produce to the market. In this particular case, the farmer has cultivated Bottle Gourd (Lauki – Doodhi Bhopla-Sorekai: a variety made famous by Baba Ramdev).

The Story of Ram and His Struggles

The farmer has a 19-year-old son named Ram, who is currently on summer vacation from studying F.Y.B.A. His father asks him to go and sell the Bottle Gourd at the APMC market. Excited about the opportunity, Ram fills a "Bori" (a sack) with approximately 55 Bottle Gourds, weighing around 30-35 kg. He then places the Bori in a tempo and embarks on a 45-minute journey, paying Rs 20 for transportation and Rs 10 for his fare.

The Harsh Realities of the Market

Upon entering the bustling market, Ram encounters various traders engaged in active trading sessions.

Frustration and Disappointment in Trading

Ram approaches the first trader, eagerly stating the selling rate of Rs 4 per piece. However, the trader pays no attention and leaves without a second glance. As the day progresses, Ram faces more disappointments.

The Breaking Point

After a series of unsuccessful negotiations, frustration begins to take its toll on Ram. It's worth noting that these trading activities occur during peak summer in April, around 1 o'clock in the afternoon.

A Devalued Commodity

Eventually, Ram manages to sell the Bottle Gourd for a mere Rs 1 per piece. The emotional and financial strain he endures becomes evident when considering the costs involved.

The Financial Struggles: A Grim Reality

Let's delve into the numbers to understand the severity of the situation. Ram had to spend Rs 20 on transportation, Rs 20 on his to-and-fro fare, Rs 5 for the plastic Bori, and Rs 2 as APMC fees. In total, he had to spend Rs 47, while only earning Rs 55. After deducting expenses, he was left with a meager Rs 8 for his efforts of lugging around 30-35 kg of Bottlegourd. This calculation does not even account for the cost of pesticides, seeds, fertilizers, labor, and other expenses associated with farming.

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The Desperate Consequences: Why Farmers are Suiciding in India

Considering these circumstances, one can understand why farmers in India are driven to desperate measures, including suicide. The lack of financial stability, mounting debts, and the inability to meet basic needs push farmers to the brink.