Rising discontent in agriculture sector poses political test for Indian Prime Minister

In a significant turn of events, farmers in India’s Punjab state have reignited protests, demanding legal guarantees for minimum crop prices, just months before the general elections. This resurgence of unrest among farmers, who represent over 40% of India’s population, underscores growing dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. 

Despite Modi’s earlier concession to repeal three contentious farm laws in 2021, the agricultural community’s grievances, centred around falling incomes and insufficient government support, have only intensified.

The protests, initially contained within Punjab, spotlight broader issues affecting the vast rural hinterland, where many feel neglected compared to urban areas. The demonstrators argue that Modi’s promises, including a pledge to double farmers’ incomes by 2022, have fallen short, as export restrictions and cheaper imports undermine their livelihoods.

 These challenges are compounded by a sluggish performance in the farm sector, which contrasts sharply with growth in manufacturing and services.

As the farmers’ caravan faces barricades and clashes with security forces, the opposition sees an opportunity to challenge Modi’s dominance and appeal to a critical voter base. The protestors’ determination, evidenced by their preparation and makeshift living arrangements, signals a readiness for a prolonged standoff, drawing parallels to the significant 2020/21 farmer movement.

This renewed wave of protests arrives at a critical juncture for Modi, who seeks an unprecedented third term in office. While his strong leadership and nationalistic policies have bolstered his image, the agricultural crisis presents a real threat to his political future. 

The government’s efforts to address the farmers’ demands have yet to yield a resolution, highlighting a deepening rural-urban divide and the urgent need for comprehensive agricultural reforms.