Hindu Editorial Analysis : 6-June-2024
India’s agriculture sector plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. Employing around 263 million people, it stands as the world’s largest agricultural land. Over the past 15 years, agricultural output has soared from USD 87 billion to USD 459 billion. This essay explores the key aspects of India’s agriculture sector, the challenges it faces, and potential solutions for improvement.
Significance of Agriculture in India
- Employment: The agriculture sector is a major source of employment for millions.
- Food Security: It helps ensure that the population has access to food.
- Rural Income: It enhances the income of rural communities.
Growth Trends
India’s agricultural sector is projected to grow by 3.5% in the fiscal year 2022-23. This growth is noteworthy, especially considering challenges such as:
- Volatile oil prices
- Geopolitical tensions
Key Points About India’s Agriculture Sector
- Arable Land Resource: India has the second-largest arable land globally, encompassing 20 agro-climatic regions.
- Export Potential: Agricultural exports exceeded $40.9 billion in 2023, indicating strong international demand.
- Farm Mechanisation: The farm machinery industry is expected to grow from ₹9,200 crores in 2022 to ₹15,000 crores by 2026.
Major Challenges in Indian Agriculture
Climate Change
- Impact on Production: Erratic weather patterns are threatening crop yields and farmer livelihoods.
WTO Challenges
- Trade Negotiations: India’s negotiations with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) face hurdles, particularly due to the US’s influence on dispute resolutions.
Small Land Holdings
- Livelihoods: Approximately 85% of arable land is smallholdings, limiting income opportunities for farmers.
Economic Pressures
- Low Food Prices: Keeping food prices low for consumers can hurt farmers’ incomes and sustainability.
- Water Scarcity: Excessive water demand for agriculture is depleting aquifers, leading to drinking water shortages.
Solutions to Overcome Challenges
While challenges exist, proactive solutions can lead to improvement:
- Investment in Research: More funding for agricultural research can yield significant returns.
- Market Reforms: Addressing market inefficiencies is crucial. States often prioritize short-term measures over sustainable long-term investments.
- Governance Improvement: Better governance and accountability are needed to enhance agricultural management.
- Sustainable Practices: Emphasizing sustainable productivity ensures broader economic growth.
- Balanced Trade Policies: Formulating fair export-import policies will benefit both producers and consumers.
Why In News
Recently, it has been observed that the agriculture sector in India faces significant challenges, particularly as the nation strives toward the vision of Amrit Kaal, a period aimed at achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development.
MCQs about Challenges and Opportunities in India’s Agriculture Sector
- What percentage of India’s agricultural sector is projected to grow in the fiscal year 2022-23?
A. 2.5%
B. 3.5%
C. 4.5%
D. 5.5%
- What is one of the major challenges facing small landholding farmers in India?
A. High crop yields
B. Limited access to technology
C. Abundant water supply
D. Large profit margins
- How much is India’s farm machinery industry expected to grow from 2022 to 2026?
A. From ₹5,000 crores to ₹10,000 crores
B. From ₹9,200 crores to ₹15,000 crores
C. From ₹7,000 crores to ₹12,000 crores
D. From ₹10,000 crores to ₹18,000 crores
- What is one proposed solution to improve India’s agricultural sector?
A. Increasing water consumption
B. Investing in agricultural research
C. Reducing food prices further
D. Maintaining current trade policies
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