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3 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
EconomyEnvironment & EcologySocial IssuesNEWS

Rajya Sabha: Opposition Raises Farm Distress, Migration, Human-Wildlife Conflict

Opposition in Rajya Sabha highlights farm distress, migration, and human-wildlife conflict.

Rajya Sabha: Opposition Raises Farm Distress, Migration, Human-Wildlife Conflict

Photo by Mathieu Stern

During Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs raised issues including agrarian distress, rising human-wildlife conflict, and outward migration. Sasmit Patra (BJD) noted paddy procurement issues in Odisha. John Brittas (CPI(M)) raised concerns about human-wildlife conflict in Kerala. Fauzia Khan (NCP(SP)) drew attention to India’s rising outward migration, with over two lakh Indians renouncing citizenship annually.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper 3 (Economy): Agrarian distress, migration, and human-wildlife conflict are all related to economic development and resource management.

2.

GS Paper 2 (Governance): Government schemes and policies aimed at addressing these issues.

3.

GS Paper 1 (Social Issues): Migration and its social impact.

4.

Potential question types: Statement-based, analytical, and problem-solving.

Visual Insights

Outward Migration from India

Key statistics on Indians renouncing citizenship annually.

Indians Renouncing Citizenship Annually
Over 2 lakh

Highlights the increasing trend of outward migration and potential brain drain.

More Information

Background

Agrarian distress in India has deep historical roots. The Permanent Settlement of 1793, introduced by the British, created a class of landlords who often exploited farmers. This led to cycles of debt and poverty. The lack of access to irrigation, modern technology, and fair prices for their produce has further exacerbated the problem. Migration, both internal and external, is a complex phenomenon influenced by economic, social, and political factors. Historically, India has seen large-scale migrations due to events like the Partition of 1947 and various economic crises. The promise of better opportunities in urban areas or foreign countries continues to drive migration patterns. This is linked to concepts like human capital and economic development. Human-wildlife conflict is an age-old issue that has intensified with increasing human population and shrinking natural habitats. Historically, forests were considered sacred groves, and humans coexisted with wildlife. However, deforestation, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development have led to increased interactions and conflicts. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 was enacted to protect wildlife and their habitats, but its implementation faces numerous challenges.

Latest Developments

The government has launched several initiatives to address agrarian distress, including the PM-KISAN scheme, which provides income support to small and marginal farmers. Efforts are also being made to improve irrigation facilities and promote crop diversification. However, challenges remain in ensuring that these benefits reach all farmers effectively. Recent trends in outward migration show a growing number of Indians seeking opportunities abroad. This is driven by factors such as higher salaries, better quality of life, and access to advanced education and healthcare. The government is working to facilitate safe and legal migration through initiatives like the Skill India Mission, which aims to equip Indian workers with the skills needed to succeed in the global job market. To mitigate human-wildlife conflict, various measures are being implemented, including habitat improvement, translocation of animals, and awareness campaigns. The use of technology, such as drones and camera traps, is also being explored to monitor wildlife movements and prevent conflicts. States like Karnataka and Maharashtra have implemented specific policies to address this issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key issues highlighted in the Rajya Sabha regarding rural India, as mentioned in the news?

The Rajya Sabha discussion highlighted three key issues: agrarian distress (problems faced by farmers), rising human-wildlife conflict, and outward migration (people leaving India). These are important indicators of the challenges facing rural communities.

2. For Prelims, what key number should I remember from this news about outward migration?

Remember the figure of approximately 2 lakh Indians renouncing their citizenship annually. This number signifies a notable trend in outward migration and could be a potential MCQ.

Exam Tip

Focus on remembering the magnitude (lakhs) rather than the exact number.

3. What government initiatives are relevant to addressing the issues of agrarian distress mentioned in the Rajya Sabha?

The PM-KISAN scheme, which provides income support to small and marginal farmers, is a relevant initiative. Additionally, government efforts to improve irrigation facilities and promote crop diversification are also important.

4. How does the historical context of the Permanent Settlement of 1793 relate to the current agrarian distress?

The Permanent Settlement created a class of landlords who often exploited farmers, leading to cycles of debt and poverty. This historical exploitation has contributed to the long-standing agrarian distress in India.

5. What are the potential implications of rising outward migration for India, as highlighted in the Rajya Sabha?

Rising outward migration, with over two lakh Indians renouncing citizenship annually, could lead to a loss of skilled workers and potential investment. This can impact India's economic growth and development in the long run.

6. What are some measures that can be taken to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, as raised in the Rajya Sabha?

Measures include improving habitat management for wildlife, creating buffer zones between human settlements and wildlife areas, and providing compensation to affected communities. Raising awareness and promoting coexistence are also crucial.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the issues raised in Rajya Sabha: 1. Sasmit Patra (BJD) raised concerns about paddy procurement issues in Odisha. 2. John Brittas (CPI(M)) highlighted the rising outward migration from India. 3. Fauzia Khan (NCP(SP)) drew attention to human-wildlife conflict in Kerala. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Sasmit Patra (BJD) indeed raised concerns about paddy procurement issues in Odisha during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: John Brittas (CPI(M)) raised concerns about human-wildlife conflict in Kerala, not outward migration. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Fauzia Khan (NCP(SP)) drew attention to India’s rising outward migration, not human-wildlife conflict in Kerala.

2. Which of the following factors contribute to agrarian distress in India? 1. Inadequate irrigation facilities 2. Lack of access to modern technology 3. Fluctuations in market prices Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All the given factors contribute to agrarian distress in India. Inadequate irrigation facilities lead to dependence on monsoons. Lack of access to modern technology reduces productivity. Fluctuations in market prices make farming an uncertain and risky venture. These factors combined contribute to farmer indebtedness and distress.

3. With reference to human-wildlife conflict in India, consider the following statements: 1. Habitat loss and fragmentation are major drivers of increased conflict. 2. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 provides a legal framework for addressing the issue. 3. Translocation of animals is always a successful strategy for mitigating conflict. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: Habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation and agricultural expansion are major drivers of increased human-wildlife conflict. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 provides a legal framework for protecting wildlife and addressing human-wildlife conflict. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Translocation of animals is not always a successful strategy and can sometimes lead to further conflict or the death of the translocated animal.

4. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the recent trends in outward migration from India, as highlighted in the Rajya Sabha? A) There has been a decrease in the number of Indians renouncing citizenship annually. B) Over two lakh Indians are renouncing their citizenship annually. C) Outward migration is primarily driven by political instability in India. D) The government has no policies to address outward migration.

  • A.A
  • B.B
  • C.C
  • D.D
Show Answer

Answer: B

Option B is correct. Fauzia Khan (NCP(SP)) drew attention to India’s rising outward migration, with over two lakh Indians renouncing citizenship annually. The other options are incorrect as they misrepresent the facts presented in the news summary.

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