Introduction

India's agricultural sector, which employs 42.3% of the population, faces significant challenges in policy implementation, technological adoption, and sustainability. Balancing traditional practices with innovations like biotechnology and modern farming techniques is essential to bridging the gap between scientific progress and farmers' needs, while ensuring food security for the nation. The sector's performance remains crucial for India's growth, but it must overcome various hurdles to thrive.

Key Agricultural Metrics and Growth

  • Foodgrain Production: 330.5 million metric tonnes in 2022-23, second-largest globally.
  • Horticultural Output: Reached a record 351.92 million tonnes, growing 1.37% from the previous year.
  • Market Size: India's agricultural sector is projected to reach US$ 24 billion by 2025.
  • Kharif Production: Estimated at 148.5 million tonnes in 2023-24.

Investment and Export Trends

  • FDI in Agriculture: USD 3.08 billion from 2000-2024.
  • Food Processing FDI: US$ 12.58 billion, 1.85% of total FDI.
  • Agricultural Exports: US$ 4.34 billion (2024-25), including marine products, rice, and spices.

Key Challenges

  • Climate Change: Extreme weather events impact crop yields and farming patterns.
  • Water Stress: Sub-optimal irrigation efficiency, with only 11% of land under micro-irrigation.
  • Land Fragmentation: Average farm size has decreased from 1.08 hectares to 0.74 hectares.
  • Market Access: Price discrepancies between farm gate and retail prices persist.
  • Technology Adoption: Low digital literacy and technology penetration in rural areas.
  • Post-Harvest Losses: ₹1,52,790 crore annual losses due to inadequate infrastructure.
  • Soil Health Degradation: Overuse of fertilizers leading to nutrient imbalances.
  • Feminization of Agriculture: Women contribute significantly but lack access to resources.

Key Government Initiatives

  • e-NAM: Facilitates digital market access, increasing trade volumes.
  • Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Promotes efficient irrigation practices.
  • PM Kisan Scheme: Direct income support to farmers.
  • Soil Health Card Scheme: Encourages sustainable soil management.

Measures to Strengthen the Sector

  • Digital Agriculture: Integrate digital platforms for services like soil testing and market access.
  • Climate-Smart Agriculture: Introduce drought-resistant crops and water-efficient farming.
  • Water Management: Promote micro-irrigation and watershed programs.
  • Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): Strengthen FPOs for better market access and value addition.
  • Post-Harvest Infrastructure: Improve storage, cold chain, and processing infrastructure.
  • Soil Health Management: Promote bio-fertilizers and organic inputs.
  • Women Empowerment: Strengthen schemes like MKSP to support female farmers.

Conclusion

India's agricultural sector holds immense potential but requires a multifaceted approach to overcome its challenges. By leveraging technology, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing infrastructure, the sector can achieve greater productivity, improve farmers' livelihoods, and contribute to global food security. With the right investments and policies, India can become a leader in the global agricultural landscape.

‍

Weekly News Analysis by SuperKalam

Stay updated with our weekly news analysis on YouTube - Check here

Read more blogs