Modernizing Indian Agriculture for Sustainable Growth 2047

Source: The post Modernizing Indian Agriculture for Sustainable Growth 2047 has been created, based on the article “7 imperatives to build a viksit agri economy by 2047” published in “Indian Express” on 21st January 2025

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Agriculture

Context: The article discusses modernizing Indian agriculture to achieve sustainability and technology-driven growth by 2047. It highlights seven key areas: AI, regenerative farming, robotics, alternative proteins, digital twins, blockchain, and climate-smart techniques, emphasizing adaptation for India’s unique challenges and small farmers.

For detailed information on India’s progress and challenges in agriculture read Article1, Article2, Article3

What are the ways to modernize Indian agriculture to achieve sustainability and technology-driven growth by 2047?

1. Adopt AI for Precision Farming:

• AI can optimize weather forecasting, pest control, and crop yields.
• In the US and Europe, generative AI offers real-time agronomic insights using large datasets.
• India should develop vernacular AI platforms for small farmers, partner with AgTechs for affordable AI tools, and integrate AI-based advisory services in government schemes.

2. Promote Regenerative Farming:

• Soil degradation and biodiversity loss are major concerns due to monoculture and chemical overuse.
• France and the US use structured policies and incentives to support sustainable practices.
• India needs a national regenerative farming policy and private sector R&D to promote cost-efficient agro-ecological practices.

3. Expand Robotics and Automation:

• Basic tools like seeders and sprayers are common; advanced robotics are less accessible due to cost.
• Create affordable robotic solutions for small farms, establish AgTech hubs, and encourage public-private partnerships.

4. Develop the Alternative Protein Market

• India’s sector is driven by startups but faces scalability and affordability issues.
• The EU supports alternative proteins through government-backed R&D.
• India should collaborate globally to improve production techniques and increase public awareness.

5. Utilize Digital Twin Technology

• Field trials in India are manual, costly, and slow.
• The US uses digital twins to reduce trial costs and speed up innovation.
• India should partner with AgTechs, train researchers, and offer tax incentives for digital twin investments.

6. Scale Blockchain in Agriculture

• Blockchain improves food traceability and transparency.
• China uses it to ensure quality and boost farmer incomes.
• India can focus on export crops and infrastructure to enhance market access and reduce fraud.

7. Scale Climate-Smart Farming Techniques:

• Renewable energy initiatives exist but need more widespread adoption.
• Promote micro-irrigation, invest in climate-resilient seeds, and leverage AI for localized climate advisories.

Conclusion

India must modernize agriculture through innovations like AI, robotics, and blockchain, while adopting sustainable practices like regenerative and climate-smart farming. Custom solutions tailored to India’s context, along with investments and policies, will uplift smallholder farmers and build a prosperous agricultural future.

Question for practice:

Discuss the ways India can modernize its agriculture to achieve sustainability and technology-driven growth by 2047.