farmer suicides

Suicides among Telangana's government employees have surged, outnumbering farmer suicides by over three times. Data reveals a concerning rise, with financial stress, marital issues, and unfulfilled aspirations cited as key contributors. This trend challenges perceptions of stability within the public sector workforce.

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre and states on a PIL demanding a higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers to cover production costs and prevent suicides. Petitioners argue that current MSPs are insufficient, citing the M S Swaminathan Commission's recommendations and the impact of free ration schemes on agricultural markets.

A 29-year-old farm labourer in Trichy died by suicide after his beloved goat succumbed to illness. The man, V Balraj, had raised the animal as a pet for six months. Despite family counselling, he became inconsolable and was found hanging near the village bus stop.

A 25-year-old farmer in Jagtial died by suicide due to mounting debts and crop failures. Tragically, his mother suffered a fatal heart attack while awaiting his body at the morgue. The family is devastated by the double tragedy.

In a major relief to the state government — which has spent most of its first year warding off daily political dangers — the number of farmer suicides in Karnataka has dipped by 45% for year ending March 31, even as one farmer killed himself every 12 hours on average.

farmer suicides in Karnataka have come down by 33% over a three-year period, starting 2020 and until mid-February 2023, latest government data show.

Maharashtra has recorded 808 farmer suicides in the state in the first four months of the year. This averages almost seven farmer suicides every single day. The figure is lower by 88, compared to the same four-month period last year, when there were 896 farmer suicides.