PAPER-IV GS-III: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

Major Crops – Cropping Patterns in various parts of the country, – Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems; Storage, Transport and Marketing of Agricultural Produce and Issues and Related Constraints; E-technology in the aid of farmer

In News:The road to 2047 for Indian agriculture

What are the present challenges before the agriculture sector? How far have the government steps taken in this regard?

Despite agriculture engaging nearly 46% of the workforce, agriculture’s contribution to GDP is about 18%, highlighting a stark imbalance.

 Present challenges before the agriculture sector:

1. Climate Change: Unpredictable rainfall patterns, droughts, and floods are becoming more frequent, affecting crop yields and leading to financial losses for farmers.Example:Heatwave in Rajasthan in 2023, causing severe damage to wheat crops.
2. Soil Degradation: Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has led to soil erosion and loss of fertility, reducing agricultural productivity.Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in Punjab leading to soil salinity and loss of fertility.
3. Water Scarcity: Increasing urbanization and industrialization have put a strain on water resources, making it difficult for farmers to meet their irrigation needs.Groundwater depletion in parts of Maharashtra due to over-extraction for irrigation purposes.
4. Limited access to markets: Farmers often struggle to find profitable markets for their produce, leading to low prices and reduced income.

5. Lack of Infrastructure: Inadequate storage facilities, poor transportation networks, and limited access to markets hinder farmers’ ability to sell their produce at fair prices.
6. Debt Burden: Many farmers are burdened by heavy debts due to low crop yields, rising input costs, and limited access to credit.
7. Market Fluctuations: Price volatility in agricultural commodities can make it difficult for farmers to plan their production and secure a stable income.Onion price crash in India in 2020
8. Lack of Modern Technology: Many farmers are still using traditional farming methods, limiting their productivity and efficiency.Many farmers in Bihar still relying on traditional farming methods, limiting their productivity.

The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to address these challenges, including:

1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN):This scheme provides income support to small and marginal farmers, helping them cope with financial hardships.
2. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), introduced in 2016, provides financial assistance for crop losses.
3. Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme, providing farmers with crucial insights into soil health and nutrient management thereby enhancing agricultural productivity 
4. The Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, supports the development and modernisation of post-harvest management infrastructure.
5. The Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) initiative aims to ensure transparent property ownership in rural areas.
6. Minimum Support Price (MSP): The government provides MSP for certain crops, guaranteeing farmers a minimum price for their produce, regardless of market fluctuations.
7. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana: To improve On-farm water use efficiency to reduce the wastage of water  and enhance the adoption of being precise in irrigation and other water-saving technologies 
8. Agricultural Extension Services: The government provides agricultural extension services to farmers, offering advice on best practices, new technologies, and market information.

Effectiveness:

1. Implementation challenges:Government bureaucracies can be inefficient, leading to delays in implementation and wastage of resources .Example: The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), faces delays and administrative issues, causing slow claim settlements and farmer dissatisfaction.
2. Dependency: Over-reliance on government support can create a dependency culture among farmers, discouraging them from taking risks and innovating.
3. Market Distortion: Government interventions, such as subsidies and MSP, can distort market signals and lead to inefficiencies in resource allocation.
4. Inequity: Government programs may disproportionately benefit larger farmers more than small and marginal farmers, exacerbating inequality in the agricultural sector. PMKISAN does not include landless and tenant farmers.
5. Short-Term Focus: Public Distribution System (PDS) provides immediate food relief but often ignores long-term agricultural sustainability and productivity improvements.

By embracing sustainable practices, leveraging technological innovations, and implementing strategic initiatives, India can enhance farmer incomes, meet the food demands of its growing population, and achieve inclusive, sustainable development.