Small and marginal farmers form the bedrock of India's agricultural sector, driving food production and rural livelihoods. Representing a staggering majority of the farming community, they play a pivotal role in ensuring food security and contributing to the country's GDP. Despite their significance, these farmers grapple with systemic challenges that limit their productivity and profitability. 

Who Are Small and Marginal Farmers?

As per the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), small and marginal farmers are defined as those owning less than two hectares of land. Collectively, they constitute 86% of India’s farming population but own only 47% of the agricultural land. Despite these constraints, their contributions are noteworthy:

They account for 51% of India’s total agricultural output (FAO, 2023).

They produce over 70% of the country’s high-value crops like fruits and vegetables, which are critical for nutrition security (ICRISAT, 2022).

Challenges Faced by Small and Marginal Farmers

1. Limited Access to Inputs

A report by NITI Aayog (2022) highlights that only 35% of small farmers have access to high-quality seeds and fertilizers. The lack of modern equipment further limits their capacity to adopt advanced farming methods.

2. Financial Constraints

The Indebtedness Report by NABARD (2021) revealed that over 60% of small farmers rely on informal sources for credit, incurring interest rates as high as 36%, compared to the 7% subsidized rate available through institutional loans.

3. Market Access and Price Realization

Research by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER, 2023) found that small farmers lose 15-20% of their income due to inadequate storage and transport infrastructure. The absence of proper market linkages often forces them to sell at lower prices.

4. Climate Vulnerability

According to a study by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT, 2022), 90% of small farmers in rain-fed regions experience crop losses due to erratic weather patterns. Poor irrigation infrastructure exacerbates these challenges, making them vulnerable to climate shocks.

5. Institutional Challenges

Fragmented landholdings (average size: 1.08 hectares) and limited access to government schemes reduce their ability to scale operations or diversify income. Only 30% of small farmers avail extension services, according to a report by ICAR (2022).

Government Initiatives for Small Farmers

The Government of India has introduced several schemes to address these challenges:

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Promotes micro-irrigation technologies, with over 15 million hectares brought under drip and sprinkler irrigation since 2015.

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Supports organic farming, with 2 million hectares certified as organic farms.

e-NAM: Facilitates online trading, connecting 1.73 crore farmers with better price discovery.

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Insured 36 million farmers against crop loss in 2023 alone.

Soil Health Card Scheme: Issued 25 crore cards, helping farmers reduce fertilizer usage by 10-15% while maintaining productivity.

The Way Forward

1. Enhanced Credit Access

Promoting microfinance models and strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs) can provide farmers with low-interest loans. Success stories like Bandhan Bank's rural credit initiatives demonstrate how structured financing can uplift small farmers.

2. Technological Integration

Platforms like Digital Green and Kisan Call Centres have shown how digital tools can provide real-time advice. Additionally, ISRO satellite-based weather forecasting systems have proven effective in helping farmers plan operations.

3. Market Reforms

Strengthening Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) has shown results. According to NABARD, FPO members reported a 20-25% increase in income due to better bargaining power and market access.

4. Climate-Resilient Practices

Innovative techniques like zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) and crop diversification can help mitigate climate risks. For example, the adoption of ZBNF in Andhra Pradesh has led to a 30% reduction in input costs while maintaining yields.

5. Capacity Building and Extension Services

Organizing vocational training programs and field schools can empower farmers with modern techniques. The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s extension initiatives increased awareness of sustainable farming among 70,000 farmers last year.

Small and marginal farmers are the backbone of India’s agricultural economy. Their empowerment is a socio-economic necessity and a strategic imperative for ensuring national food security. India can create a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agrarian framework by addressing their challenges through policy support, technological advancements, and grassroots engagement. With the right interventions, these unsung heroes can continue to feed the nation while securing their livelihoods.