The great agrarian distress
Besides the well-known fact that the farmers across the globe are quitting their business (while the rural youth continue to stay disenchanted with farming and move to cities for better opportunity; making the great migration the fact of life), what is more pressing a problem is the ageing of the work force in agriculture.
The world’s farming population is growing older. Japan tops the chart (at a pronounced average age of 67.8 years); while India is not doing any better. According to the Agriculture Census 2015-16 conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, the average age of an Indian farmer is 54.6 years.
So how do we address the issue of ‘growing gap’?
- Taking advantage of the older farmers’ traditional knowledge
- Sensitizing the youth, changing their perspective, while making them appreciative of the old wisdom
1) Older farmers in India can be of great help in several ways, both in terms of sharing their traditional knowledge and practices as well as serving as mentors and advisors to younger farmers. Here are some examples of how older farmers can be of help:
- Sharing Traditional Knowledge: Older farmers in India have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience over the years that can be invaluable in modern farming practices. They possess knowledge of indigenous crops, their cultivation techniques, and their medicinal properties. They also have knowledge of soil types, weather patterns, and pest management practices. This knowledge can be shared with younger farmers to help them improve their agricultural practices.
- Mentorship: Older farmers can serve as mentors and advisors to younger farmers, sharing their experiences and providing guidance on farming practices. This can be particularly helpful in regions where farming is declining due to the migration of younger generations to urban areas.
- Conservation of Seeds: Older farmers often have a collection of traditional seed varieties that are well-adapted to local conditions. They can help preserve these varieties by cultivating them and sharing them with other farmers.
- Community Organizing: Older farmers can play a key role in community organizing and mobilization around agriculture-related issues. They can help form farmers’ cooperatives, self-help groups, and other community-based organizations that can work together to solve common problems.
Data from a study conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) shows that older farmers in India have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be used to improve agricultural practices. The study found that older farmers possess knowledge of indigenous crops and traditional farming practices that can be used to improve crop yields and reduce the use of chemicals. The study also found that older farmers are often more experienced in managing pests and diseases, and are better equipped to deal with adverse weather conditions.
2) Talking about sensitizing the youth, here are some of the steps that may help:
- Education and Awareness: Education and awareness campaigns can be organized to highlight the important role that older farmers play in agriculture. This can be done through school programs, community outreach, and media campaigns. Such programs can educate younger generations on the contribution of older farmers towards agriculture and their traditional knowledge.
- Farm Visits and Internships: Younger generations can be encouraged to visit farms and learn from older farmers directly. This can help them understand the importance of traditional farming practices and appreciate the knowledge and experience of older farmers. Internships and apprenticeships can also be offered to younger farmers to work alongside older farmers, learn from them, and gain hands-on experience.
- Recognition and Awards: Recognition and awards can be given to older farmers to celebrate their contribution towards agriculture. This can help younger generations understand and appreciate the importance of older farmers in the community. For example, the Indian government has introduced the Prerna Award, which recognizes the contribution of older farmers towards the conservation of traditional agricultural practices.
- Digital Platforms: Social media and other digital platforms can be used to share the stories of older farmers and their contributions to agriculture. This can help younger generations connect with older farmers and appreciate their knowledge and experience.
Data from the Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute (IASRI) indicates that the average age of farmers in India is 55 years. This means that a majority of farmers in India are older and have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience over the years. However, younger generations are increasingly moving away from agriculture due to the lack of profitability and opportunities in the sector.
Therefore, it is important to sensitize younger generations towards the older farmer in India. This can help preserve traditional farming practices, improve agricultural productivity, and ensure the sustainability of agriculture in India. By educating younger generations on the importance of older farmers, we can help bridge the gap between generations and build a more sustainable future for agriculture in India.
By,
Shivani Parihast
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