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.

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.

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.

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. 

Vivek’s father tried to find work in the city but could only earn ₹8,000 per month. The family had to borrow ₹50,000 for repairs. Now, they struggle to pay for food and school fees.

Here is a table showing their situation:

Vivek’s family now lives in debt and cannot afford school. This shows how war affects families beyond just 

numbers.

5. Psychosocial Impact on Communities

War deeply affects communities, especially children. Beyond physical harm, it causes emotional and mental suffering. This is evident in the life of Jay, a 10-year-old boy from a village near the India-Pakistan border.

Jay's father, a farmer, lost his livelihood due to cross-border shelling that destroyed their crops and livestock. The family had to relocate to a refugee camp, leaving behind their home and community. 

The constant threat of violence and the unfamiliar environment led to Jay experiencing anxiety and nightmares.

In the camp, Jay's mother reported that he often woke up crying, fearing bombings. He became withdrawn, avoiding play and school. Local health workers noted a rise in such symptoms among children in the camp, attributing it to the trauma of displacement and loss.

This example illustrates how war disrupts not only the economy but also the mental well-being of individuals, particularly children, highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems in conflict zones.

The table above reflects the significant changes in Jay's life due to the war, emphasising the profound psychosocial impact on children in conflict zones.

Conclusion

War ruins lives beyond just money. People lose jobs, farms, and businesses. Families struggle to eat, pay bills, or send kids to school. Children suffer fear and trauma. Even after the fighting ends, recovery is hard. 

The real cost of war is not just in numbers – it is in broken lives and lost hope.

FAQs

1. How does war affect jobs?

War makes people lose their jobs when businesses close or workers flee.

2. Why do farmers suffer in war?

War destroys crops, raises costs, and cuts off markets, leaving farmers poor.

3. What happens to small shops during war?

Many shut down as customers disappear and supplies run out, forcing families into debt.

4. How does war affect children’s education?

Many children drop out of school as families lose income and schools close or become unsafe.

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