LAND REFORMS
At the time of India’s independence in 1947, the agrarian structure was characterized by the prevalence of feudal systems such as the Zamindari, Ryotwari, and Mahalwari systems. These systems led to widespread exploitation of tenants and poor agricultural productivity. Land reforms became a critical agenda for the newly independent Indian government to ensure social justice, improve agricultural productivity, and eliminate feudal structures.
1.Ownership and Revenue Collection: Under the Zamindari system, land was owned by landlords (zamindars), who acted as intermediaries between the British colonial administration and the actual tillers of the land. The zamindars were responsible for collecting rent from the tenants and paying a fixed revenue to the British government. This system was primarily prevalent in Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh.
2.Exploitation of Tenants: The zamindars often imposed high rents and various cesses on the tenants, leading to widespread exploitation. Tenants had little security of tenure and could be evicted at the whim of the zamindars.
3.Agricultural Productivity: Due to the exploitative nature of the system, tenants had little incentive to invest in the land, leading to poor agricultural productivity and frequent famines.
1.Direct Relationship with Peasants: Introduced in parts of Madras (now Tamil Nadu) and Bombay (now Maharashtra) presidencies, the Ryotwari system established a direct relationship between the government and the peasant (ryot), who was recognized as the owner of the land. The ryots paid land revenue directly to the government.