Constraints faced by small and marginal farmers in India

Abstract

Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy, with small and marginal farmers constituting the majority of the farming population and playing a crucial role in ensuring food and nutritional security. Despite their significant contribution, these farmers face multiple structural, institutional, and environmental constraints such as land fragmentation, limited access to credit and insurance, poor infrastructure, market inefficiencies, and low technological adoption. The review critically examines existing literature on the challenges faced by small and marginal farmers in India and their implications for agricultural productivity and livelihood security. It highlights the need for integrated policy interventions focusing on infrastructure development, digital inclusion, credit accessibility, and climate-resilient practices. Strengthening these areas is essential to enhance the economic viability, resilience, and sustainability of small and marginal farming systems in India.