Farmers’ Lives in the Wake of Sustainable Development

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study the socio-economic challenges faced by farmers in the wake of sustainable agriculture in India. This paper identifies issues related to sustainable agriculture that contribute significantly to the lives of rural populations and examines the role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in addressing them. The study also seeks to focus on the replicability of sustainable agricultural practices. The analysis is conducted through online surveys and telephonic interviews with farmers and members of NGOs working in the area of sustainable agriculture. It has been found that the practice of sustainable agriculture is growing. However, despite this positive assessment, sustainable agricultural practices have encountered numerous challenges like the inappropriate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, hesitation to opt for new practices, shortage of resources, gender discrimination, landholding being too small to make sustainable farming practices economically viable, and many more. The involvement of NGOs and other self-help groups in the lives of farmers, in order to pursue sustainable agriculture, has made a positive impact. Although developments are taking place, the rate is quite low. Therefore, we may conclude that change for the better is coming albeit gradually and more active steps towards the process need to be taken.