Transforming Indian Agriculture for a Developed Nation by 2047
At the 10th Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of making India a developed nation by 2047. The agriculture sector is seen as pivotal to achieving this goal through innovation, economic strength, and environmental sustainability.
Achievements in Agriculture
- India transformed from a food-insecure to a food-surplus nation.
- Food grain production increased from 50.82 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 353.96 million tonnes in 2024-25.
- Agricultural exports reached ₹4.08 trillion in 2023-24.
Challenges and Opportunities
Agriculture faces challenges such as declining farm sizes, climate change, resource depletion, and global competition. However, opportunities exist in biotechnology, precision farming, digital agriculture, and sustainable practices.
Strategic Roadmap by 2047
Research for Resilience and Prosperity
- Focus on genomics, biotechnology, climate-resilient agriculture, and sustainable resource management.
- Incorporate tools like CRISPR, AI, machine learning, and big data analytics.
Shaping New Leaders
- Agricultural education should include AI, agri-entrepreneurship, and climate-smart farming.
- Promote experiential learning, internships, and startup incubation.
Disseminating Improved Technologies
- Enhance extension systems using mobile apps, online platforms, and social media.
- Develop Krishi Vigyan Kendras with advanced agri-tech and data-driven services.
Investment in Agricultural R&D
- India spends 0.65% of GDP on R&D; it should increase to at least 1%.
- Strategic investment can unlock agricultural potential, making India globally competitive.
The vision of a developed India involves access to science and technology for every farmer and aspiring agri-entrepreneur and agriculture as a prestigious profession. Through collective will and strategic action, agriculture can lead India to this goal by 2047.
