kisaan

Kisaan, also spelled kisān, is the Hindi-Urdu term for a farmer or peasant. In India and Pakistan, it denotes a person who cultivates land or works in agriculture, typically referring to smallholders and rural laborers. The word is widely used in political, social, and media discourse to describe farmers as a social group.

The etymology is linked to Persian and Urdu influences on the Hindi language, with the term widely used across South Asia. Its precise origins are debated, but it has become the standard term for farmer in many North Indian and Pakistani languages. Transliteration varies, with kisaan emphasizing a long 'aa' sound.

In economic terms, kisaan represents a central component of agrarian systems. A large share of rural employment and household income in South Asia comes from farming or farm-related activities. Many kisaan operate small or marginal landholdings, face challenges such as input costs, price volatility, and credit constraints, and are affected by climate and water access.

Historically and politically, kisaan have organized into farmer unions and movements. In India, organizations such as the All India Kisan Sabha and other unions have long represented agricultural workers and landholders. The term gained prominence during the 2020-2021 Indian farmers' protests, sparked by new agricultural laws; the protests led to widespread mobilization and resulted in the repeal of the laws in 2021.

In Pakistan, kisaan likewise plays a central role in agrarian policy debates, with farmer organizations advocating for irrigation, subsidies, and fair pricing. The term remains a common descriptor in journalism, policy discussions, and cultural discourse about agricultural life in South Asia.