Occupational Hazards Faced by Farmers in India
In an agricultural country like India, farmers form the backbone of the economy. They contribute to national welfare by planting crops utilized for both national consumption and exports. Despite feeding the entire nation, farmers themselves aren’t self-sufficient and their physical health has been topic of conversation for decades. They struggle financially to maintain a decent livelihood. Additionally, several occupational hazards are involved in physically demanding work like farming. Let us decode them while we observe Kisan Diwas this year.
Kisan Diwas – Purpose and SignificanceAlso known as National Famers Day, Kisan Diwas is celebrated on 23rd December in India. On this day, the nation commemorates the birth anniversary of the fifth Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh. Singh played a pivotal role in uplifting the agricultural sector in India and introduced many policies for farmers' welfare. On this day, events are organised to educate people about the various issues farmers face.
Types of health hazards farmers faceFarming is physically exerting work where farmers work under testing weather conditions. Hence, it involves health hazards like:
AccidentsFarmers use heavy machinery with unguarded moving parts during fieldwork. Some agricultural equipment includes roll-over protection structures, tractors, motorbikes, ploughers, levellers, etc. When operated improperly, such machines and tools cause musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
Heat stressWorking for long hours in the sun exposes farmers to sunburn. Such constant exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer. Besides, the scorching heat also results in dizziness, heat cramps, stroke, dehydration, and heart problems. When left unattended, such conditions manifest into severe health problems.
Respiratory issuesDust and dirt particles in the field easily enter the respiratory organs through constant exposure. As a result, most farmers suffer from organic dust toxicity syndrome (ODTS). This health complication compromises lung capacity, which, in turn, enhances the risk of suffocation, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.
Ergonomic conditionsOverworking in the field compromises muscle strength. Also, there are many situations where farmers have to engage in physically straining activities, be it climbing trees, ploughing fields, picking up raw materials, etc. One wrong move can lead to a ligament tear or trigger nerves in the muscle. Momentarily, they only cause pain but can gradually manifest into chronic issues.
InfectionsToxic chemicals are a part of yielding crops and vegetables. Farmers use pesticides to prevent bugs and flies from ruining their hard work. While these are essential agricultural ingredients, they also include harmful chemicals. Long-term exposure to these substances causes breathing problems, skin rashes, stinging eyes, and other infections.
Health insurance for medical safetyVarious government initiatives focus on farmers' welfare in India. Hence, they aim to provide health coverage to farmers. Such policies offer primary coverage to farmers and their families in a medical emergency. But for personalised coverage based on individual needs, investing in private health insurance helps. Health insurance helps cover the costs of medical expenses and secures farmers financially. Farmers can choose from various types of health insurance plans for comprehensive coverage.
This Kisan Diwas Day, educate your farmer friends about the importance of health insurance and assist them with the online insurance purchase process.
Disclaimer: The above information is indicative in nature. For more details on the risk factor, terms and conditions, please refer to the Sales Brochure and Policy Wordings carefully before concluding a sale.