India’s Agricultural Transformation: A Pathway to a Developed Nation by 2047
Context
Agriculture in India, despite being the backbone of the economy, is fraught with challenges. The sector’s contribution to the GDP has been steadily declining, even as it continues to employ a significant portion of the workforce.
- This imbalance is a cause for concern, especially when viewed against the backdrop of India’s goal to become a developed nation by 2047.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Agriculture)
Dimensions of the Article
- Background of the Issue
- Highlights
- What is the Issue?
- Significance of transforming agriculture
- Implications of the Current Agricultural Trajectory
- Suggested Planning and Strategic Initiatives
Background of the Issue
- The agricultural sector is plagued by issues such as climate change, land degradation, and market access problems.
- Moreover, the sector’s growth rate has consistently lagged behind the overall GDP growth, indicating deep-rooted structural issues.
Highlights:
- Agriculture employs 46% of India’s workforce but contributes only 18% to the GDP.
- The sector’s growth rate of 3.3% lags behind the overall GDP growth of 6.1%.
- Structural challenges, including climate change and market access, hinder agricultural productivity.
What is the Issue?
- The central issue facing Indian agriculture is the stark disparity between its contribution to employment and its share of GDP.
- If current trends continue, this imbalance will worsen, with agriculture’s share in GDP potentially shrinking to 7%-8% by 2047, while still employing a significant portion of the workforce.
- This indicates that the current growth trajectory is insufficient and that substantial changes are needed to enhance agricultural productivity and income levels. Additionally, the sector faces the challenge of meeting the food demands of a rapidly growing population, projected to reach 1.59 billion by 2040.
- Key Issues:
- Disparity between agricultural employment and GDP contribution.
- Insufficient growth trajectory in agriculture.
- Challenge of meeting food demands for a growing population.
Significance of transforming agriculture:
- The significance of transforming agriculture in India cannot be overstated, given its central role in the country’s socio-economic fabric.
- A vibrant and productive agricultural sector is essential for ensuring food security, reducing poverty, and achieving sustainable development.
- The initiatives and policies implemented by the government, such as the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), are critical in addressing these challenges. However, more needs to be done to ensure that agriculture can contribute meaningfully to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
- Key Points:
- Agriculture is vital for food security and poverty reduction.
- Current initiatives like PMKSY and PMFBY are crucial but need to be expanded.
- A productive agricultural sector is essential for achieving sustainable development.
Implications of the Current Agricultural Trajectory
- If the current trajectory continues, the implications for India’s agricultural sector and overall development are concerning.
- The shrinking share of agriculture in GDP, coupled with stagnant growth rates, could lead to increased rural poverty and migration to urban areas, exacerbating social and economic inequalities.
- Furthermore, the sector’s inability to meet the growing food demands could lead to food insecurity, inflation, and increased dependence on imports.
- This scenario underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to agricultural development that addresses both productivity and sustainability.
Suggested Planning and Strategic Initiatives
- Promote sustainable agricultural practices through precision farming and advanced irrigation techniques.
- Enhance market access and develop robust agricultural infrastructure.
- Increase investment in agricultural research and development.
- Strengthen social security measures and financial support for farmers.
- Plan strategically for future demand and align production accordingly.
Way Forward
- The road to 2047 presents both challenges and opportunities for Indian agriculture. The sector’s transformation is essential not only for achieving economic growth but also for ensuring social equity and environmental sustainability.
