Hindu Editorial Analysis : 3-February-2024

The agriculture sector is vital to India’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. However, recent estimates indicate a worrying trend. In 2023-24, agricultural GDP is expected to grow by only 1.8%, a notable decrease from the previous year’s 4%. This decline points to increasing stress in the agriculture sector, which is a primary livelihood for about 55% of the Indian population.

Importance of Agriculture in India

India holds a prominent position in global agriculture. Some key highlights include:

  • The world’s largest cattle herd (buffaloes).
  • Extensive areas planted with wheat, rice, and cotton.
  • Leading producer of milk, pulses, and spices.
  • Significant contributions as the second-largest producer of various fruits, vegetables, tea, and sugar.

Recent Trends Affecting Agriculture

Several concerning trends are impacting farmers and the agricultural economy:

  • Fall in Agricultural Prices: Prices have stagnated or even fallen, despite a modest 5% increase in minimum support prices (MSP) over the last decade.
  • Declining Real Income: From 2012-13 to 2018-19, real incomes from farming fell by approximately 1.4%, largely due to rising costs of inputs like fertilizers.
  • Rising Rural Unemployment: Unemployment rates in rural areas have increased significantly for both men and women.
  • Stagnant Public Investment: Public funding in agriculture, including research and infrastructure, has remained low, hindering growth.

Challenges Facing Farmers

Farmers face numerous obstacles that impact their productivity and income:

  • Limited Access to Credit: Many small farmers struggle to secure affordable loans for modern farming equipment.
  • Small Landholdings: Fragmented land ownership leads to inefficient farming practices.
  • Outdated Practices: Reliance on traditional methods hinders the adoption of modern techniques.
  • Water Scarcity: Agriculture heavily depends on rainfall, making it vulnerable to droughts.
  • Soil Degradation: Poor land management practices reduce soil fertility and increase pest vulnerability.
  • Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor storage and market access contribute to post-harvest losses.
  • Market Access Issues: Small farmers often lack the means to sell their products effectively.
  • Climate Change: Unpredictable weather patterns pose risks to crops and livestock.
  • Pests and Diseases: Outbreaks can significantly harm crop yields.

Government Initiatives

The Indian government has implemented various programs to support farmers:

  • PM-KISAN: Provides direct income support to farmers.
  • e-NAM: An online platform for farmers to sell their produce nationwide.
  • Soil Health Card Scheme: Helps farmers understand their soil’s nutrient needs.
  • PMFBY: Crop insurance for financial support in case of loss.
  • Agricultural Infrastructure Fund: Invests in infrastructure like cold storage.

Suggested Measures for Improvement

To strengthen the agricultural sector, several measures can be implemented:

  • Increase Incomes: Focus on technology improvements, diversify crops, and ensure fair pricing mechanisms.
  • Generate Employment: Create more job opportunities in agro-processing and rural transport.
  • Reduce Risks: Implement a Climate Resilience Scheme to address production and price risks.
  • Develop Infrastructure: Improve agricultural markets and storage facilities through public-private partnerships.
  • Enhance Rural Quality of Life: Provide basic amenities and unite various programs for larger impact.
  • Promote Organic Farming: Support small-scale farmers in organic production to meet rising consumer demand.

Why In News

The estimate for agriculture GDP in 2023-24 reveals a growth of just 1.8 percent, a significant dip from 4 percent the previous year, highlighting the increasing stress in the agriculture sector and raising concerns about the sustainability of farmers’ livelihoods in the face of ongoing economic challenges.

MCQs about The Current State of Agriculture in India

  1. What is the expected growth rate for agriculture GDP in India for the year 2023-24?
    A. 4.0%
    B. 3.0%
    C. 2.5%
    D. 1.8%
    Correct Answer: D. 1.8%
    Explanation: The agriculture GDP in India is estimated to grow by only 1.8% in 2023-24, which is a significant decrease from the previous year’s growth rate of 4%.
  2. Which of the following is a major challenge faced by small farmers in India?
    A. Access to advanced technology
    B. Availability of large landholdings
    C. Access to affordable credit
    D. High market demand
    Correct Answer: C. Access to affordable credit
    Explanation: Small and marginal farmers often struggle to access affordable credit, which limits their ability to invest in modern farming equipment and quality inputs.
  3. What initiative provides direct income support to farmers in India?
    A. National Agriculture Market (e-NAM)
    B. PM-KISAN
    C. Soil Health Card Scheme
    D. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
    Correct Answer: B. PM-KISAN
    Explanation: PM-KISAN is a direct income support scheme that provides eligible farmers with financial assistance of Rs. 6,000 per year in three equal installments.
  4. Which factor is NOT mentioned as a challenge affecting agricultural productivity in India?
    A. Climate change
    B. Market volatility
    C. Overpopulation in urban areas
    D. Soil degradation
    Correct Answer: C. Overpopulation in urban areas
    Explanation: The various challenges such as climate change, market volatility, and soil degradation, but it does not specifically mention overpopulation in urban areas as a challenge affecting agricultural productivity.

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