Farmer Power

This is a non-fiction, policy-focused examination of a watershed moment in Indian agriculture and rural politics. It centers on the 2020-21 farmer protests—mass actions that drew hundreds of thousands of farmers to the capital and helped redefine democratic participation, civil disobedience, and peaceful resistance. Suited for readers with an interest in politics, economics, and rural livelihoods, the tone is measured, thoughtful, and illuminating. Through historical context, field observations, and policy analysis, the book traces how the movement evolved, what made it stand out on the world stage, and how it intersected with procurement systems and state interventions over the past two decades. It also sheds light on the broader challenges faced by small and marginal farmers and agricultural laborers, and on the limitations of current procurement mechanisms. - In-depth examination of the 2020-21 movement, its scale, and democratic approach - Analysis of challenges facing smallholders, agricultural laborers, and procurement system gaps - Policy-layered context: two decades of state interventions and reforms - Firsthand accounts from farmers, activists, and local communities paired with field observations - Clear, accessible writing that connects ground realities to national policy - Global perspective: how this movement fits into broader conversations about democracy and livel