Agriculture is indeed recognized as a critical growth engine for the 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047' vision, aiming to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of its independence.
This emphasis is highlighted in various reports and analyses from prominent institutions. A NITI Aayog report, authored by Professor Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, underscores that the agricultural sector must play a central role in India's national transformation.
The report notes that agriculture contributes 19.73% of the national income at current prices and employs 46% of India's total workforce. The period from 2014-15 to 2024-25 has been identified as the highest growth phase in India's agricultural history, marked by strong and sustained expansion, diversification towards high-value crops, and enhanced stability.
The Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) also published a policy brief titled "New Deal for Agriculture for Viksit Bharat@2047," which addresses pressing issues within the sector and proposes actionable solutions for sustainable income growth and inclusive development.
Key aspects of agriculture's role in 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047' include:
Economic Contribution and Employment
The sector is a cornerstone of the Indian economy, supporting millions of livelihoods and contributing significantly to national income and exports. While its share of the overall GDP has declined, it continues to be a major employer.
Food Security and Rural Prosperity
India's agricultural transformation has moved from pre-1960s food insecurity to record-breaking production. The vision aims for agriculture to evolve beyond food security to ensure farmer prosperity and for villages to become thriving centers of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Productivity and Modernization
To achieve the 'Viksit Bharat' goals, agriculture needs to overcome challenges in productivity, sustainability, and modernization. This includes a shift towards tech-integrated, climate-resilient, and value-driven farming. Improving productivity is crucial, especially with shrinking arable land.
Technological Innovation
The vision emphasizes leveraging advanced technologies like precision farming, biotechnology, machine learning, and digital agriculture to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Sustainability and Farmer Welfare
Sustainable agricultural practices, water resource management, soil health, and supporting policy frameworks are essential. Strategies also focus on promoting diversification towards high-value commodities, enhancing market access, liberalizing trade policies, and boosting Total Factor Productivity.
Government Initiatives
Government initiatives such as the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund, Digital Agriculture Mission, AgriStack, and the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for the Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) are crucial in driving growth and transformation. Overall, a technology-driven, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural transformation is considered essential for achieving balanced and resilient economic development and realizing the ambitious goals of 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047'.