Punjab, once a symbol of agricultural prosperity, is grappling with deep-rooted economic and social challenges that evoke its troubled past. The scars of the 2020-21 farmer protests remain evident, with recurring demonstrations threatening the state’s recovery. Issues such as demands for a minimum support price (MSP), debt relief, and opposition to certain legislative reforms continue to fuel unrest. These protests often strain the state’s infrastructure, disrupt daily life, and dampen economic prospects.
Source:- bbc news
Economically, Punjab faces stagnation, with its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) lagging behind the national average and debt dependency growing alarmingly. Revenue deficits have reached nearly 70%, weakening fiscal stability and limiting developmental initiatives.
Source:- news 18
The social fabric is also under stress, as caste and class inequalities persist. For example, tensions between Dalit laborers and Jat landowners over wages and land rights highlight the need for more inclusive reforms. Activist groups emphasize the urgency of addressing structural issues, such as small landholdings and mechanized farming, which reduce opportunities for rural labor.
This convergence of economic distress and social discontent underscores the urgency for effective policy interventions and inclusive development strategies to restore stability in Punjab.
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