How War Destroys Civilian Jobs, Farms, and Small Businesses Beyond the Economic Stats?

War's impact on civilian livelihoods extends far beyond economic statistics, deeply affecting jobs, agriculture, and small businesses. Here are 5 key points illustrating these effects:

1. Widespread Job Loss and Economic Displacement

War affects more than just numbers – it disrupts real lives. In India, recent tensions have caused many workers to flee industrial areas like Ludhiana, fearing for their safety and jobs. Industries such as textiles and hotels have been hit hard by this sudden loss of labour.

To understand this better, let's look at the story of Keshaw, a 17-year-old from Bihar. He moved to Ludhiana to work in a textile factory. When conflict arose, he lost his job and had to return home. His journey back was expensive, and now he struggles to support his family.

Here is a breakdown of Keshaw's financial situation:

Keshaw's experience shows how war can lead to job loss and financial hardship for civilians, beyond what statistics reveal.

2. Devastation of Agricultural Systems

War severely damages agriculture, affecting farmers and their families. Fields are destroyed, water sources become unsafe, and supply chains break down, leading to food shortages and income loss.

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Example: Mayank’s Story

Mayank, a 14-year-old boy from Punjab, lived on his family's farm. Before the conflict, their monthly earnings were ₹25,000. However, war disrupted their livelihood:

The war destroyed irrigation systems and made roads unsafe, increasing costs and reducing income. Mayank’s family struggled to afford essentials, and he had to leave school to help on the farm. 

Their story reflects the broader impact of war on agriculture and rural communities.

3. Collapse of Small Businesses and Informal Economies

War severely impacts small businesses and informal economies, especially in regions like India. These enterprises often lack formal support, making them vulnerable during conflicts. 

Disruptions in supply chains, reduced consumer spending, and safety concerns lead to closures and job losses.

Lakshay's Story:

Lakshay, a 15-year-old boy from a small town in Punjab, worked in his family's bicycle repair shop. The shop earned ₹12,000 monthly before war tensions escalated. As conflict arose, many migrant workers left the area, and customers dwindled. 

Within 2 months, earnings dropped to ₹4,000. Unable to cover rent and expenses, the family closed the shop. Lakshay's father, previously earning ₹8,000, now earns ₹3,000 doing odd jobs. Lakshay had to leave school to support his family.

Lakshay's Education Status

Enrolled

Dropped Out

This example illustrates how war-induced disruptions can devastate small businesses and force families into economic hardship, affecting education and livelihoods.

4. Long-Term Economic Instability and Recovery Challenges

War causes long-term economic problems for civilians. People lose jobs, farms, and small businesses. It becomes hard to earn money and rebuild life. The damage to roads and markets makes things worse.

Let us look at Vivek’s story to understand this better.

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Vivek is a 16-year-old boy from a village in Punjab. His family owned a small dairy farm. Before the war, they earned ₹25,000 per month. During the conflict, their cows were lost, and the barn was destroyed. They had to stop farming.