Benefits of Indian Government Policies in Rural Agriculture Development

Manjeet, Beena Kumari, Sunil Kumar

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Indira Gandhi University,

Meerpur, Rewari- 122502

Abstract

Agriculture Development is a sub-set of rural expansion. However, rural zones cannot achieve
growth without their farming growth because famous of the rural occupiers are involved in
farming practices as their chief foundation of revenue. The effectiveness of the farming sector
cannot grow without the development of industrial, commercial, and service industries
illustrating current farming. Therefore, there is a crucial need for strategies to promote technical
and social supply growth and improve the charm of rural zones in the remote sector. Grants to
farm involvements such as seeds to proliferation and irrigation in numerous emerging nations,
such as India, have directly sustained farming fabrication. Such policies as Pradhan Mantri kisan
Samman Nidhi, soil health card scheme, Kisan credit card scheme, and The Green Revolution,
launched in the 1960s, laid the foundation for modern agricultural practices, introducing high-
yielding crop varieties and current inputs that significantly increased agricultural productivity.
Subsequent schemes like the Blue Revolution focused on fisheries and aquaculture, and the
government provided subsidies regarding using machinery tools and vehicles like cultivator,
threshers, tractor etc. Indian governments generate pension schemes for lower farmers, which are
covered under policies, and the government also opened an education Institute to provide
complete knowledge against agriculture for more yield with more safety. In this study, by using
the government policy, a good and large quantity of crops can be produced very quickly.

Keywords:- Agriculture development, subsidies, scheme, machinery tools

 Introduction:

The Indian government has formulated and implemented various policies to foster rural
agriculture development. These policies are designed to report the challenges faced by
agriculturalists, enhance productivity, ensure ecological practices, and uplift the overall rural
economy.

The benefits stemming from these government initiatives are multi-faceted, impacting farmers,
rural communities, and the nation. In this discussion, we will delve into the critical advantages of
Indian government policies in rural agriculture development, shedding light on the
transformative effects experienced at the grassroots level.

 Financial Empowerment of Farmers - One of the primary objectives of government

policies is to provide financial support to farmers. Through schemes like the Pradhan
Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and loan waiver programs, farmers receive
direct financial assistance, alleviating economic burdens and allowing them to invest in
modern farming techniques, quality seeds, and machinery.
  Technological Advancements and Knowledge Transfer - The government has
implemented initiatives to introduce modern technologies and farming practices to rural
areas. Schemes like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) focus on
disseminating knowledge about efficient water management, organic farming, and
precision agriculture.
 Infrastructure Development - Rural infrastructure is crucial for the prosperity of
agriculture. The government has undertaken initiatives to improve irrigation facilities,
build roads, and enhance storage and warehousing capacities. These developments not
only ease the transportation of agricultural produce but also reduce post-harvest losses,
ensuring a more efficient supply chain.
 Crop Insurance and Risk Mitigation - To shield farmers from the unpredictable nature
of agriculture, the government has introduced crop insurance schemes. These programs
safeguard farmers against losses due to natural calamities, pests, or diseases, providing a
safety net that encourages risk-taking and investment in high-yield crops.
 Market Access and Price Stabilization - Initiatives like the Electronic National
Agriculture Market (eNAM) facilitate transparent and efficient trading, preventing
exploitation and ensuring farmers receive equitable compensation for their efforts.
 Women's Empowerment and Inclusive Growth - Recognizing the significant role
played by women in agriculture, government policies strive for gender-inclusive
development. Schemes like the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP) focus on
empowering women in rural areas by providing training, financial support, and access to
resources, fostering a more inclusive and equitable agricultural landscape.

As we explore the multifaceted benefits of Indian government policies in rural agriculture

development, it becomes evident that these initiatives are not merely confined to the fields but
have far-reaching implications for the holistic growth of the nation. By addressing the diverse
needs of farmers and rural communities, these policies contribute to a sustainable and resilient
agricultural sector, laying the foundation for a prosperous and food-secure India.

 Indian government policies related to rural agriculture development

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the information provided may not reflect the
latest policy changes or new initiatives. It's essential to check with official government sources
for the most recent updates. As of my last update, some of the critical Indian government policies
related to rural agriculture development include:

1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana - This crop protection scheme offers economic
funding to agriculturalists in case of crop failure due to natural disasters, pests, or
infections.
2. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana - Launched to improve water use efficiency,
PMKSY focuses on creating and strengthening water sources for agricultural
purposes.
3. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture - NMSA aims to promote supportable
farming practices, enhance soil health, and conserve water resources.
 4. Soil Health Card Scheme - This initiative focuses on providing loam strength to
farmers, offering information about the nutrient prestige of their soil and fertilisers.
5. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana - RKVY is designed to support state-level initiatives
for increasing agriculture and allied sector productivity and promoting holistic
rural development.
6. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana - This scheme encourages biological agriculture
and certification by providing economic and other support to farmers.
7. E-NAM (National Agriculture Market) - Launched under the "One Nation One
Market" theme, e-NAM aims to create a united national marketplace for
agricultural merchandise by connecting current APMC (Agricultural Produce
Market Committee) mandis.
8. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act - While not
exclusively an agricultural policy, MGNREGA provides employment opportunities
in rural areas, including agriculture-related activities, to enhance livelihood security.

 Challenges for Revival of Indian Agriculture –

While Indian farming has long been the pillar of the economy, providing livelihoods for a
significant portion of the population, it faces many challenges that impede its growth and
resilience. These challenges are critical for devising plans to revive and sustain the agricultural
sector. In this discourse, we will explore the multifaceted obstacles hindering the revival of
Indian agriculture and consider potential avenues for overcoming them.

 Climate Change and Unpredictable Weather Patterns - Indian agriculture is highly

dependent on monsoons, making it susceptible to climate change. Increasingly
erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, pose a significant threat to
crop yields, requiring adaptive strategies and resilient farming practices.
 Outdated Agricultural Practices - Many Indian farmers still rely on traditional and
ancient farming methods. The need for modernisation, including adopting technology,
efficient irrigation systems, and sustainable practices, is crucial for enhancing
productivity and reducing dependency on weather conditions.
 Land Degradation and Soil Health - Overuse of agricultural land, improper
irrigation practices, and excessive use of chemical fertilisers have led to soil
degradation. Restoring soil health through sustainable practices and promoting
techniques such as organic farming is essential for long-term agricultural
productivity.
 Water Scarcity and Inefficient Water Management - Depleting water resources and
inefficient water management practices pose a significant challenge. Implementing
effective water conservation methods, promoting drip irrigation, and investing in
water infrastructure are essential for addressing this issue.
 Lack of Access to Credit and Financial Resources - Many farmers, tiny and
marginalised, face challenges accessing credit and financial resources. Strengthening
rural financial institutions, implementing farmer-friendly loan schemes, and
ensuring timely disbursement of funds are vital for supporting agricultural
activities.
  Market Distress and Price Volatility - Farmers often face market uncertainties and
price fluctuations, leading to income instability. Strengthening market linkages,
establishing efficient supply chains, and implementing measures to ensure fair
prices for agricultural produce are necessary for mitigating these challenges.
 Land Fragmentation and Small Landholdings - The prevalence of small and
fragmented landholdings makes it challenging for farmers to benefit from
economies of scale. Land consolidation efforts, promoting cooperative farming, and
facilitating access to modern farming equipment can address these challenges.

 Policies Needed for Revival of Indian Agriculture

Indian agriculture stands at a crucial juncture, facing multifaceted challenges that necessitate
thoughtful and comprehensive policy interventions. To revitalise the sector and ensure sustained
growth, a strategic approach is required. This discussion outlines critical policy reforms that can
pave the way for the revival of Indian agriculture, addressing issues ranging from outdated
practices to financial constraints.

 Modernisation and Technological Adoption - Implement policies that promote the

widespread adoption of modern farming technologies. Incentivise farmers to embrace
precision agriculture, use advanced machinery, and integrate digital tools for better yield
prediction, resource management, and crop monitoring.
 Sustainable Agriculture Practices - Support the adoption of eco-friendly methods that
enhance soil health, reduce water consumption, and mitigate the impact of climate
change.
 Water Management and Irrigation Reforms - Develop and implement policies focused
on efficient water management, including the promotion of drip irrigation, rainwater
harvesting, and community-based water conservation projects. Invest in modernising
irrigation infrastructure to address water scarcity and ensure optimal utilisation.
 Credit Access and Financial Inclusion - Strengthen policies that enhance access to
credit for farmers, tiny and marginalized ones. Introduce farmer-friendly loan schemes,
streamline credit delivery mechanisms, and encourage the involvement of rural financial
institutions to provide financial support to farmers.
 Market Reforms and Price Stability - Introduce market-oriented reforms to address
price volatility and market uncertainties. Strengthen agricultural marketing infrastructure,
promote contract farming, and establish farmer-producer organisations to ensure fair
prices and stable market conditions.
 Education and Skill Development - Implement policies focusing on agricultural
education and skill development. Establish training programs to familiarise farmers with
modern techniques, technology usage, and sustainable practices. Strengthen agrarian
extension services to disseminate knowledge effectively.
 Land Reforms and Consolidation - Undertake land consolidation initiatives to address
the challenge of fragmented landholdings. Facilitate the creation of farmer-producer
companies and cooperatives to promote collective farming and improve access to
resources and technology.
  Crop Insurance and Risk Mitigation - Strengthen and expand crop insurance schemes
to provide a safety net for farmers against natural calamities, pests, and diseases. Ensure
timely and transparent claim settlements, encouraging farmers to take calculated risks and
invest in high-yield crops.
 Research and Development Support - Collaborate research institutions, farmers, and
private entities to develop and disseminate advanced agricultural technologies.
 Women Empowerment in Agriculture - Introduce policies that specifically target
women's empowerment in agriculture. Provide training, financial support, and access to
resources to ensure gender-inclusive development in rural areas.

Revitalising Indian agriculture requires a holistic and concerted effort from policymakers,
stakeholders, and the farming community. The suggested policy reforms aim to create an
enabling environment for sustainable and resilient agricultural practices, fostering a prosperous
future for Indian agriculture.

 Future Scope

The future of Indian agriculture holds immense promise and potential, driven by a confluence of
technological advancements, policy innovations, and sustainable practices. As the nation looks
ahead, several vital areas offer substantial scope for development, heralding a new era of
productivity, resilience, and inclusive growth in the agricultural sector.

 Precision Agriculture and Technology Integration - Precision agriculture, enabled by

these technologies, allows for optimised resource utilization, improved crop management,
and real-time monitoring, ultimately boosting productivity and efficiency.
 AgriTech Startups and Innovation Hubs - The burgeoning ecosystem of AgriTech
startups is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping the agricultural landscape.
Investments in innovation hubs, research centres, and technology incubators will foster
the development of solutions addressing specific challenges faced by farmers, ranging
from crop health monitoring to market access.
 Climate-Smart Agriculture - With climate change posing a significant threat to
agriculture, there is a growing emphasis on climate-smart practices. Future developments
will focus on resilient crops, water-use efficiency, and sustainable farming methods that
can adapt to changing climate patterns, confirming nutrition safety in the appearance of
environmental tasks.
 Digital Platforms for Market Access - The future of Indian agriculture envisions a
seamless connection between farmers and markets through digital platforms. Agri-
marketing platforms, e-commerce initiatives, and blockchain-based supply chain
solutions will empower farmers with transparent pricing, direct market access, and
reduced dependency on intermediaries.
 Diversification and High-Value Crops - The evolution of Indian agriculture involves
shifting towards diversification and the cultivation of high-value crops. Speciality crops,
organic produce, and medicinal plants present lucrative opportunities for farmers,
opening new markets and increasing the income potential of the agricultural community.
  Farm Mechanization and Autonomous Vehicles - Continued advancements in farm
mechanisation, coupled with the emergence of autonomous vehicles, will revolutionise
farm operations. Tractors equipped with AI, drones for crop monitoring, and robotic
harvesters will enhance efficiency, reduce labour dependency, and bring about a
paradigm shift in agricultural practices.
 Skill Development and Farmer Education - The future scope of Indian agricultural
development emphasises ongoing skill development and education for farmers. Training
programs, workshops, and digital learning platforms will help modern practices and
technologies effectively.
 Organic and Sustainable Farming Practices - Increasing consumer awareness and
focusing on healthy living will drive the adoption of organic and sustainable farming
practices. Future agricultural development in India will transition towards agroecological
methods, emphasising soil health, biodiversity, and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs.
 Global Collaboration and Best Practices Exchange - Collaboration with international
organisations, research institutions, and other countries will be pivotal for leveraging
global best practices. Exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and partnerships can
facilitate the transfer of knowledge, technology, and sustainable agricultural models.

The future of Indian agricultural development is characterised by a dynamic landscape shaped by

technological innovation, policy evolution, and a commitment to sustainable practices. As the
nation navigates this path, embracing change and fostering a collaborative ecosystem will be
instrumental in realising a future where Indian agriculture thrives, ensuring food security,
economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

 Conclusion

The conclusion regarding rural agriculture development policies is multifaceted. It depends on

various factors such as the specific policies implemented, the socio-economic context of a
region, and the effectiveness of the strategies employed. The success of rural agriculture
development policies dramatically depends on the unique characteristics of each area. Policies
should be tailored to address the challenges and opportunities in a particular rural setting.
Emphasising sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices is crucial for the
long-term viability of rural agriculture. Policies that promote conservation, organic farming, and
efficient resource use contribute to both environmental preservation and increased productivity.
A coordinated effort ensures the efficient implementation of policies and maximises their impact.
In conclusion, successful rural agriculture development policies require a nuanced, context-
specific, and multi-pronged approach. Policymakers need to assess the evolving needs of rural
communities continuously, stay responsive to changing circumstances, and foster an
environment that enables sustainable agricultural practices and equitable economic development.