Correct Option
The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Land reforms in India were introduced post-independence with the primary objective of abolishing intermediaries, imposing ceilings on landholdings, and redistributing surplus land to the landless. These measures aimed to foster equity and inclusive growth in the agrarian sector.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct. Since independence, the Government of India has implemented various land reform measures, including the imposition of land ceilings. The objective was to acquire surplus land from large landowners and redistribute it among landless laborers and marginal farmers to reduce economic disparity.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect. The land redistribution process was not fully successful. While some states like Kerala and West Bengal saw significant progress, in many other regions, implementation was hindered by legal loopholes, lack of political will, and bureaucratic delays. Consequently, a large section of agricultural workers remains landless or possesses economically unviable holdings, and not all were made productive.
- Statement 3 is Correct. Small and marginal farmers in India typically possess landholdings that are fragmented and often located in less fertile areas. Due to a lack of capital and access to infrastructure, these lands frequently lack irrigation facilities, making cultivation heavily dependent on rainfall.
Key Takeaway
Key Takeaway: While land redistribution was a major policy goal to address agrarian inequality, its implementation was uneven and partial. Structural issues such as dependence on rainfall and poor land quality continue to plague small farmers.