Work

Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on agriculture in a rainfed region in India: Lessons for dealing with natural and economic shocks

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: On March 25, 2020, India imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb COVID-19, affecting agricultural operations in northern Karnataka’s rainfed districts. A survey of 1004 households revealed that 64% faced challenges accessing inputs, credit, and transport. In Bidar, 54% of respondents struggled with input supply disruptions, compared to 12% in Raichur. Additionally, 29% of respondents in Bidar and 33% in Raichur reported issues with timely credit access. These impacts varied by region, landholding, and social category. The study highlights the need for increased public agricultural expenditure, better technological tools, and strengthened supply chains and market access to mitigate such disruptions in the future.

Source: IIMB Management Review

DOI: 10.1016/j.iimb.2025.100620

Authors: Juhi Chatterjee, Rakesh Gomaji Nannewar, Tejal Kanitkar, R. Srikanth

Institutions: National Institute of Advanced Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Language: English

Topic: Agricultural Economics and Practices

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, No poverty, Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200