Agriculture has traditionally been considered a noble profession in India. There has been a famous saying in Hindi in rural India, 'Uttam Kheti, Madhyam baan, Adham Chakri, Bhikh Nidan", which means 'Agriculture is the best, next is business, still worse is service and prohibited is begging. Former India Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri gave the slogan, "Jai Jawaan, Jai Kisaan", meaning "Victory to Farmer and Victory to Soldier'. Our farmers used to be the main characters in movies, and their contribution to the nation used to be highly appreciated. They are often called 'Annadata' or 'Giver of food grain' and honoured by citizens for fulfilling our society's most important need, viz. food. Thomas Jefferson, one of the founding fathers of the USA, echoed the thought: "Agriculture is our wisest pursuit because it will, in the end, contribute most to real wealth, good morals & happiness." Agriculture continues to be an important sector of the Indian economy. However, its relative importance has considerably declined. According to the census 2011, 54.6 per cent of the population is engaged in agriculture and allied activities, but it contributes merely 17 per cent to the country's Gross Value Added. It is thus evident that their income is considerably less than the people who are employed in the manufacturing and service sectors. In developed countries like the USA, only 2% of the population is engaged in agriculture, but its contribution in GDP is 1%. Hence, the situation of farmers is still better in these countries. In India, the condition of farmers has constantly been deteriorating over time due to the reduction in farmers' income and the high risks involved. According to National Crime Records Bureau, around 40-50 farmers commit suicide in India every day. (No. of words 289)
- Sunil Bhutani 'Rudraksha'
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