In the early 1990s, the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) exerted pressure on the state to accept its economic demands. The BKU is a prominent farmers' organization in India that advocates for the rights and welfare of farmers.

The BKU's economic demands primarily revolved around the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of the Indian economy. Here is a detailed explanation of why the correct answer is option 'D' - economic demands:

1. Agricultural Reforms:
The BKU demanded various reforms in the agricultural sector to address the issues faced by farmers. These reforms aimed to improve the economic conditions of farmers and enhance agricultural productivity. Some of the key demands included:

- Fair Minimum Support Prices (MSP):
The BKU demanded that the government should ensure fair and remunerative prices for agricultural produce. They argued that higher MSPs would provide farmers with better income opportunities and protect them from market fluctuations.

- Loan Waivers and Debt Relief:
The BKU pressed for loan waivers and debt relief for farmers who were burdened with heavy debts. They argued that such measures would alleviate the financial stress faced by farmers and prevent agrarian distress.

- Access to Credit and Insurance:
The BKU urged the government to ensure easy availability of credit and insurance facilities for farmers. They believed that access to affordable credit and insurance coverage would protect farmers from financial uncertainties and enable them to invest in agricultural activities.

2. Irrigation and Water Management:
The BKU also emphasized the need for improved irrigation facilities and efficient water management in the agricultural sector. They demanded the development of irrigation infrastructure, such as canals and reservoirs, to ensure adequate water supply for farming activities. Additionally, they called for measures to promote water conservation and efficient irrigation practices.

3. Agricultural Subsidies and Inputs:
The BKU sought subsidies and support for agricultural inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. They argued that providing these inputs at subsidized rates would reduce the cost of cultivation for farmers and make agriculture more economically viable.

4. Agricultural Marketing Reforms:
The BKU highlighted the need for reforms in the agricultural marketing system. They demanded the establishment of farmer-friendly markets, removal of middlemen, and the introduction of transparent and efficient price discovery mechanisms. These reforms aimed to ensure better market access for farmers and fair prices for their produce.

In summary, the BKU's pressure on the state in the early 1990s revolved around economic demands related to agriculture. They called for various reforms and support measures to improve the economic conditions of farmers and make agriculture a more sustainable and profitable sector.