Hindu Editorial Analysis : 3-February-2025

Agriculture has always been a critical part of India’s economy, contributing about 16% to the nation’s GDP and employing nearly 45% of the workforce. The sector not only ensures food security but also supports employment and drives economic growth. To strengthen this backbone, the Indian government has introduced numerous initiatives to support farmers and improve the agricultural landscape.

Key Initiatives in Agriculture

The 2025-26 Union Budget of India emphasizes the importance of agriculture as one of the four engines of development. These engines, along with MSMEs, Investments, and Exports, are essential for achieving India’s vision of becoming a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. Several initiatives have already been rolled out, such as:

  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Disbursed ₹3.46 lakh crore to farmers.
  • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Provided ₹1.65 lakh crore in claims.
  • Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF): Sanctioned ₹52,738 crore for over 87,500 projects aimed at improving post-harvest management.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for essential crops like paddy and wheat has also seen significant increases, making it more rewarding for farmers.

Focus Areas in Union Budget 2025-26

The budget introduces several new schemes to enhance agricultural productivity and rural prosperity:

  • Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Aimed at 100 low-productivity districts, benefiting around 1.7 crore farmers.
  • Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: A 6-year mission to enhance pulse production, focusing on Tur, Urad, and Masoor.
  • Mission for Cotton Productivity: A five-year plan to improve cotton farming, especially for extra-long staple cotton varieties.
  • KCC Loan Enhancement: Increasing the loan limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh for farmers under the Kisan Credit Card scheme.

These efforts also include infrastructure development, such as setting up a new urea plant in Assam to boost fertilizer production.

Challenges and Suggestions

Despite the positive initiatives, there are several challenges:

  • Implementation of New Schemes: Effective execution is vital to ensure that the benefits reach the right beneficiaries. Overcoming bureaucratic hurdles is essential.
  • Access to Quality Seeds and Technology: Farmers still struggle with obtaining modern seeds and technology. The government should accelerate the adoption of climate-resilient, high-yielding crop varieties.
  • Infrastructure and Storage: Improving storage facilities and post-harvest infrastructure will reduce wastage and help farmers get better prices.
  • Credit Availability: Increasing credit access through KCC is essential, but simplifying loan procedures and promoting financial literacy among farmers is equally important.
  • Market Access and Fair Pricing: Strengthening market linkages and encouraging Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can provide farmers with fair prices for their produce.
  • Climate Change and Sustainability: Adapting to climate change is vital. Continuous education on sustainable practices, as outlined in the budget, is necessary for long-term agricultural growth.
Why In News

Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy, employing nearly 45% of the workforce and contributing about 16% to the nation’s GDP. This sector not only sustains millions of livelihoods but also plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and supporting rural economies across the country.

MCQs about Agriculture’s Role in India’s Economy

  1. What is the primary aim of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme?
    A. To provide farmers with free seeds
    B. To disburse direct income support to farmers
    C. To enhance agricultural exports
    D. To improve irrigation systems
    Correct Answer: B. To disburse direct income support to farmers
    Explanation: The PM-KISAN scheme provides ₹3.46 lakh crore in direct income support to farmers, ensuring financial assistance for their needs.
  2. Which crop is NOT a focus of the ‘Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26?
    A. Tur
    B. Urad
    C. Masoor
    D. Rice
    Correct Answer: D. Rice
    Explanation: The ‘Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ mission focuses on enhancing the production of pulses such as Tur, Urad, and Masoor, not rice.
  3. What is a major challenge faced by farmers despite various government initiatives?
    A. Availability of modern seeds and technology
    B. Excessive government funding
    C. High demand for crops
    D. Lack of rural labor
    Correct Answer: A. Availability of modern seeds and technology
    Explanation: Many farmers still face challenges in accessing quality seeds and modern technology, which hinders their ability to adopt high-yielding, climate-resilient crop varieties.

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