Challenges for Indian agriculture to realize its aspiration of a Viksit Bharat by 2047: Viksit must be inclusive

Source: The post challenges for Indian agriculture to realize its aspiration of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 has been created, based on the article “Viksit must be inclusive” published in “Indian express” on 1st April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Indian economy- growth and development

News: The article discusses the challenges and necessary strategies for New Indian Agriculture Challenges for Viksit Bharat by 2047.

How has Indian agriculture grown over the years?

Indian agriculture’s growth has been steady, with an average annual growth rate of 3.3% from 1991-92 to 2023-24.

Under the Modi government (last 10 years), agriculture grew at 3.6%, slightly better than the 3.5% during the Manmohan Singh era.

Agriculture, engaging about 45% of India’s workforce, contributes around 18% to the GDP. However, the agri-GDP growth for 2023-24 is just 0.7%.

By 2047, agriculture’s GDP share might drop to 7-8%, but it could still involve over 30% of the workforce.

What are the challenges for Indian agriculture to realize its aspiration of a Viksit Bharat by 2047?

Climate Change Impact: Agriculture is vulnerable to climate risks, like rising temperatures and unseasonal rains that dropped growth to 0.7% in 2023-24.

Workforce Imbalance: Despite contributing about 18% to GDP, agriculture employs 45% of the workforce, indicating low productivity. This discrepancy could lead to economic imbalances.

Resource Management: Challenges in water consumption, soil degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions need urgent attention.

Technology and Innovation Lag: Modernization in farming practices and infrastructure is crucial for coping with climate challenges and increasing productivity.

Policy Limitations: Current policies, including export controls and stocking limits, resemble outdated strategies of the 1960s, indicating a need for reforms in areas like subsidies, research, and market access.

What should be done?

Increase Investment in Agriculture R&D and Innovation: Allocate more resources to agricultural research and innovation to enhance productivity.

Promote High-Value Agriculture: Shift focus to sectors like poultry, fishery, dairy, and horticulture, which offer higher economic returns.

Improve Market Access for Farmers: Develop policies and institutions to connect farmers to national and international markets, potentially through digital platforms like E-NAM and ONDC.

Rationalize Subsidies: Redirect funds from food and fertilizer subsidies towards more sustainable agricultural practices.

Enhance Skill Development: Focus on training rural populations for better job opportunities in a rapidly urbanizing India.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges facing Indian agriculture in achieving its aspiration of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.