Jharkhand Agriculture Eco Survey

Chapter 6
Agriculture and Allied Activities

Jharkhand Economic Survey 2023-24
The state’s economy is sustained by 7.9 million hectares patterns, temperature variations, soil composition, and
of agricultural land, providing sustenance for 80% of topographical features.
its rural population. The abundance of minerals and
woods in the region creates an optimal environment Jharkhand’s agricultural viability centres on
for the expansion of farming, horticulture, and forestry geographical nuances, with 90% of cultivable land in
activities. High-quality soil that holds organic matter rainfall-abundant zones. Agro-climatic zone divisions
effectively enhances agricultural productivity. Forest highlight environmental influences on productivity.
biomass sustains soil fertility, enhancing the management Despite 70% of land holdings being marginal,
of land and water. This sector encompasses agricultural questioning the feasibility of farming, technological
activities such as farming, gardening, animal breeding, interventions are considered.
and food processing. These activities are confronted Land utilization
with challenges related to climate change and unequal
distribution of land. The chapter also addresses the Land use pattern is a description of how the land is
topic of sustainable irrigation methods. It also focuses utilized. A large chunk of land in the state is suitable
on analysing the influence of the crop sector on the for agriculture, forestation and, grazing. Studying the
state by examining several factors such as cropping land use pattern is essential because it promotes the
intensity, productivity, storage facilities, irrigation, prudent utilization of existing resources. It also permits
land distribution, financial considerations, and climate the planning of cropping patterns.
change. The chapter demonstrates the utilization of both
Definitions of various land use categories:
chemical and compost fertilizers, along with multiple
sowings, to enhance crop yield and increase production. Forests– Areas that are identified and demarcated for
forest growth by the government.
Jharkhand has witnessed a consistent upswing in
agriculture and associated activities. The continual rise in Land under non-agricultural uses– Land under urban
the output of Kharif and Rabi crops, fruits and vegetables, or rural settlements, infrastructure (roads, canals, etc.,)
milk, meat, eggs, wool, cattle, poultry products, and industries, shops, etc.
fishery products highlights the government’s steadfast
commitment to this sector. However, challenges persist Barren and wastelands – Land such as barren hilly
in the form of adverse impacts of climate change and terrains, desert lands, ravines, etc., which cannot be
the uneven distribution of land, impeding agricultural brought under cultivation with the available technology.
development. Governmental interventions, exemplified Area under miscellaneous tree crops and groves (not
by initiatives like the Seed Distribution Programme, included in the net sown area) – Land under orchards
Jharkhand Krishi Rin Maafi Yojana, Krishi Samriddhi and fruit trees.
Yojana, Samekit Birsa Gram sah-Krishak Pathshala,
Agri Clinic, Krishi Mela, Kisan Call Center/Krishak Culturable waste land – Land that is left fallow for
Help Line, and Infrastructure Development, have more than five years. It can be brought under cultivation
significantly accelerated the progress of agriculture and through reclamation practices.
allied activities within the state.
Current fallow – Land that is left without cultivation
Land resources for one or less than one agricultural year.
Jharkhand, situated in eastern India, is demarcated by Fallow other than current fallow – Cultivable land
the states of Odisha to the south, Bihar to the north, which is left uncultivated for more than a year but less
West Bengal to the east, and Chhattisgarh and Uttar than five years.
Pradesh to the west. Encompassing an expansive land
area of 79,72,000 hectares, the state is geographically Net area sown – The physical extent of land on which
stratified into three distinct agro-climatic zones— crops are sown and harvested.
namely, the Western Plateau Zone, the Central and Table 6.1 provides a comprehensive overview of the land
North Eastern Plateau Zone, and the South Eastern utilization pattern in Jharkhand for the years 2019-20
Plateau Zone—based on considerations such as rainfall through 2021-22, with the area measurements presented
141
Map 6.1: Map showing the Land Utilization Pattern of Jharkhand at the District Level
Source: JSAC, prepared by the data of Nationwide Land Use/Land Cover Mapping Project
in hectares. The geographical area of Jharkhand Landholding Pattern in Jharkhand

remains consistent at 79,72,000 hectares across the
three years under consideration. Notably, a substantial According to the 2011 Census, Jharkhand exhibits
portion of the state’s land is designated as forest, with a population density of 414 inhabitants per square
22,39,481 hectares dedicated to this purpose in each of kilometre, raising concerns about land shortages
the specified years. The category of uncultivated land, resulting from the state’s growing population. Current
excluding fallow land, demonstrated fluctuations, with patterns suggest a growing demand for land specifically
a decline from 6,42,814 hectares in 2019-20 to 6,39,739 allocated for non-agricultural purposes, accompanied by
hectares in 2021-22. Fallow land, encompassing a noticeable increase in the division of land ownership.
both current and non-current fallows, decreased from Operational Holding
24,76,429 hectares in 2019-20 to 24,36,446 hectares in
2021-22. Conversely, the net sown area exhibited an Operational land holding refers to all land that is
upward trajectory, escalating from 12,91,433 hectares used wholly or partly for agricultural production and
in 2019-20 to 13,78,568 hectares in 2021-22 ( Figure is operated as one technical unit by one person alone
6.1 ). This expansion is reflected in the cropped area, or with others, regardless of the title, legal form, size
which increased from 17,59,601 hectares in 2019-20 to or location. In India, land holdings are categorised
18,45,385 hectares in 2021-22. according to their size: (i) Marginal land holdings
– 1 hectare or less; (ii) Small land holdings – 1 to 2
hectares; (iii) Semi-medium land holdings – 2 to 4
142
Table 6.1: Land Utilization Pattern (2019-20 to 2021-22)

(Area in hectares)
Sl.
Land Use 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
No.
1 Geographical Area 7972000 7972000 7972000
2 Area Under Forest 2239481 2239481 2239481
3 Land Not Available for Cultivation 1319918 1279611 1275841
(a) Area under Non-Agricultural Usage 735708 699559 690085
(b) Barren and Unculturable Land 584210 580052 585756
4 Uncultivated Land excluding Fallow Land 642814 662571 639739
(a) Permanent Pasture and other grazing Land 130580 131605 131126
(b) Land under Misc. tree crops and groves not Included in 143605 125211 126178
the Net sown Area
(c) Culturable Waste Land 368629 405755 382435
5 Fallow Land 2476429 2459927 2436446
(a) Current Fallow 1439318 1392189 1368443
(b) Fallow Lands other than Current Fallows 1037111 1067738 1068003
6 Net Sown Area 1291433 1328485 1378568
7 Cropped Area 1759601 1803092 1845385
8 Area Sown more than once 468168 474607 466817
Source: https://aps.dac.gov.in/LUS/Public/Reports.aspx
Figure 6.1: Land Utilization Pattern and their Percentage for 2021-22
Area Under Forest

6%
8% Barren and Unculturable Land
27%
Permanent Pasture and Other
Grazing Land
16% Land under Tree Crops
Culturable Waste Land

7%
Current Fallow
13% 2%
Other Fallow Land
4%
1% Net Sown Area
16%
Area Under Non Agricultural Use
Area Sown more than once
143
hectares; (iv) Medium land holdings – 4 to 10 hectares; national average (17.38%). However, the state continued
and (v) Large land holdings – Greater than 10 hectares. to demonstrate a higher percentage of Large holdings
Table 6.2 provides a comprehensive overview of the (15.33%) compared to the national average (17.07%).
distribution of landholding in Jharkhand for the years
2010-11 and 2015-16, offering insights into the number Crop Sector
of operational holdings and their corresponding areas Jharkhand’s crop sector is vital for its economy,
across various size classes. featuring Kharif crops and Rabi crops contributing to
In 2010-11, the number of Marginal holdings stood the state’s agricultural diversity. Challenges and success
at 1,848 thousand, experiencing a 6.13% increase, depend on factors like monsoon, irrigation, soil health,
reaching to 1,962 thousand in 2015-16. However, and government initiatives for sustainable farming.
the corresponding area experienced a marginal Trends in Production Productivity of Kharif
decline from 764 thousand hectares to 754 thousand Crops in Jharkhand
hectares, representing a decrease of 1.3%. Similarly,
the associated land area reduced, by 3.6%from 591 Kharif crops are monsoon crops, which include millets,
thousand hectares to 569 thousand hectares during the paddy, maize, pulses and oilseeds. The best time to
same period. Collectively, all categories exhibited an plant Kharif crops is during the monsoon season, which
overall increase in the number of operational holdings in some regions of the Indian subcontinent starts in the
by 3.47%, reaching 2,803 thousand in 2015-16. months of May or June. The harvest time for Kharif
However, the total land area under operational holdings crops typically occurs in the months of September or
witnessed a notable decrease of 2.36%, declining from October. Given below is an overview of the state’s
3,165 thousand hectares in 2010-11 to 3,091 thousand Kharif crop production in terms of yield and area:
hectares in 2015-16.
Area
Figures 6.2 and 6.3 provide a comparative analysis of
The area of Jharkhand, which is planted with Kharif
the distribution of landholding sizes in Jharkhand for
crops, is shown in figure 6.4 (on a yearly basis). It
the years 2010-11 and 2015-16, juxtaposed against the
is evident from the table 6.3 below that compared
corresponding national figures for India. Jharkhand
to the other Kharif crops, paddy is produced over a
exhibited a marginally higher percentage of Marginal
comparatively bigger area over time.
holdings (0.41%) compared to the national average
(0.39%), while Small, Semi-medium, and Medium In the financial year 2019-20, the cultivated area for
holdings in the state were slightly lower than the paddy was 1357.726 thousand hectares, while maize
national averages. The proportion of Large holdings was grown on 249.127 thousand hectares. Subsequently,
in Jharkhand (15.35%) was notably higher than the there was an expansion in the cultivated area for both
Table 6.2: Distribution of Landholding in Jharkhand (2010-11 and 2015-16)

No of Operational Holdings Area of Operational
Size Class Variations (%)
(‘000) Holdings (‘000 hectares)
Year 2010-11 2015-16 2010-11 2015-16 Number Area
Marginal 1848 1962 764 754 6.13 -1.3
Small 429 419 591 569 -2.37 -3.6
Semi-Medium 283 277 775 755 -1.95 -2.52
Medium 129 126 725 708 -2.46 -2.35
Large 20 20 311 304 -2.05 -2.19
All 2709 2803 3165 3091 3.47 -2.36
Source: Agriculture Census 2015-16, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Govt. of India
144
Figure 6.2: Average Size of Operated Area in Jharkhand and India (2010-11)
All
Large(>10ha)
Medium(4 - 10)
Semi-medium (2-4ha)
Small (1-2 ha)
Marginal (<1 ha)
0 5 10 15 20
Marginal (<1 Semi-medium

Small (1-2 ha) Medium(4 - 10) Large(>10ha) All
ha) (2-4ha)
2010-11 India 0.39 1.42 2.71 5.76 17.38 1.15
2010-11 Jharkhand 0.41 1.38 2.74 5.63 15.35 1.17
2010-11 India 2010-11 Jharkhand
Source: Agriculture Census 2015-16, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer's Welfare, Govt. of India.
Figure 6.3: Average Size of Operated Area in Jharkhand and India (2015-16)
All
Large(>10ha)
Medium(4 - 10)
Semi-medium (2-4ha)
Small (1-2 ha)
Marginal (<1 ha)
0 5 10 15 20
Marginal (<1 Semi-medium

Small (1-2 ha) Medium(4 - 10) Large(>10ha) All
ha) (2-4ha)
2015-16 India 0.38 1.4 2.69 5.72 17.07 1.08
2015-16 Jharkhand 0.38 1.36 2.72 5.64 15.33 1.1
2015-16 India 2015-16 Jharkhand
Source: Agriculture Census 2015-16, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer's Welfare, Govt. of India.
145
crops in 2020-21, with paddy covering 1750.605 Production

thousand hectares, and maize cultivation area increasing
to 285.819 thousand hectares. This trend continued in Jharkhand’s major crop is paddy and its production
2021-22, where the cultivated area for paddy reached increased from 3612.588 thousand tonnes in 2019-20
1763.548 thousand hectares, and maize was grown on to 5365.173 thousand tonnes in 2021-22. However, the
272.604 thousand hectares. However, in the financial production dropped significantly to 1823.179 thousand
year 2022-23, there was a substantial reduction in the tonnes in 2022–23 (Table 6.3). A moderate rebound is
cultivated area for both paddy and maize crops. On the predicted for 2023-24, with the paddy output reaching
other hand, the latest data, marked as the first advanced 2575.047 thousand tonnes. Maize, the region’s second-
estimate for 2023-24, indicates a potential recovery in most-produced Kharif crop, witnessed an increase
the cultivated area for both the crops (Figure 6.4). This from 494.884 thousand tonnes in 2019-20 to 623.414
suggests a positive outlook for the upcoming financial thousand tonnes in 2021-22. Nonetheless, in 2022-23,
year, indicating a potential rebound in the cultivated maize output fell to 402.175 thousand tonnes (Table
area for these crops. 6.3). The preliminary projection for maize output in
2023-24 is 504.576 thousand tonnes, indicating a small
Millets show a fluctuating trend, starting at 16.668 recovery. Table 6.3 shows the production levels of
thousand hectares in 2019-20, peaking at 20.769 major crops in Jharkhand.
thousand hectares in 2020-21, and then declining to
17.437 thousand hectares in 2022-23 (Figure 6.5). Pulses Millet’s production increased from 14.32 thousand
followed a similar pattern and for the year 2022-23, the tonnes in 2019-20 to 18.068 thousand tonnes in 2021-22
area under cultivation stood at 348.86 thousand hectare. before decreasing to 13.616 thousand tonnes in 2022-
Oilseeds exhibit a consistent decline, decreasing from 23. Pulses, including Arhar, Urad, Moong, Kulthi, and
36.45 thousand hectares in 2019-20 to 29.55 thousand other Kharif pulses, were produced at 397.09 thousand
hectares in 2022-23. tonnes in 2019-20 and 348.82 thousand tonnes in 2022-
Figure 6.4: Year-wise description of the Area under the cultivation of

Paddy and Maize (in ‘000 hectares).
1800
1600
1400
1200
'000 hectares
1000
800
600
400
200
0
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24*
Paddy 1357.726 1750.605 1763.548 789.769 1023.604
Maize 249.127 285.819 272.604 206.597 230.181
Paddy Maize
* 1st Advanced Estimate for 2023-24.

Source: Directorate of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand
146
Figure 6.5: Year-wise description of Area under the cultivation of Millets, Pulses and oilseeds
(in ‘000 hectares).
17.437
2022-23 348.86 29.55

20.729
2021-22 445.36 34.03

20.769
Year
2020-21 443.90 36.21

16.668
2019-20 419.24 36.45
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
'000 hectares
Millets Pulses Oilseeds
Table 6.3: Production level of Major Kharif crops in Jharkhand from 2019-20 to 2022-23 (in ‘000 Tonnes)
Category 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Paddy* 3612.588 5123.083 5365.173 1823.179
Maize* 494.884 623.414 606.433 402.175
Millets 14.32 17.711 18.068 13.616
Jowar 1.349 1.235 1.276 0.759
Bajra 0.205 0.081 0.087 0.136
Ragi 12.766 16.395 16.705 12.721
Total Pulses 397.09 438.12 448.59 348.82
Arhar 241.56 275.2 286.45 210.52
Urad 111.66 114.86 120.39 99.87
Moong 18.56 21.33 16.06 17.43
Kulthi 13.62 13.09 11.4 8.61
Other Kharif Pulses 11.69 13.65 14.29 11.89
Total Oilseeds 33.69 32.96 33.34 29.52
Groundnut 28.78 27.99 29.52 26.06
Castor seed 0.03 0.01 0.04 0.14
Sesamum 2.22 2.2 2.17 1.65
Nigerseed 1.5 1.94 0.97 0.67
Soyabean 1.02 0.745 0.535 0.923
Sunflower 0.08 0.007 0.1 0.07
*1st advanced estimate for 2023-24 is mentioned for Paddy and Maize and it entails to 2575.047 thousand tonnes and 504.576
thousand tonnes respectively.
147
23 (Figure 6.6). Despite minor fluctuations, pulse output As per Figure 6.8, the highest yield can be seen in pulses
of pulses remained steady during these years. Oil seed like tur, urad, and moong which is followed by that of
production decline from 33.69 thousand tonnes in 2019- oilseeds.
20 to 29.52 thousand tonnes in 2022-23.
The yield of millets in 2021-22 had a rise to 2312.45
Yield kg per hectare, while pulses yielded 1007 kg per
hectare and oilseeds yielded 980 kg per hectare. In
Crop yield is a measurement of how much agricultural the subsequent fiscal year, 2022-23, a consistent and
output is harvested per unit of land. Crop yield is a steady production level was observed. Millets yielded
measure of the agricultural output harvested per unit of 2322 kg per hectare, pulses yielded 998 kg per hectare,
land, typically stated in kilogrammes per hectare, or and oilseeds yielded 999 kg per hectare (figure 6.8).
kg/ha. The variations in crop output are a result of the ever-
During the 2019-20 fiscal year, the paddy crop changing agricultural productivity, which is affected by
produced an output of 2661 kg per hectare, while the factors including climatic conditions, farming methods,
maize crop yielded 1986 kg per hectare. Subsequently, and technological advancements.
the paddy yield experienced a notable increase in 2020- Area, Production, and yield of Rabi crops
21, peaking at 2926 kg per hectare, whereas the maize
yield declined to 651.84 kg per hectare (Figure 6.7). Rabi crops are sown in the winter season and harvested
Nevertheless, during the subsequent fiscal year, 2022- during the spring. Rabi crops include wheat, maize,
23, the yields of both the commodities decreased, with pulses, and oilseeds. Below is an overview of
paddy reaching 2308 kg per hectare and maize reaching Jharkhand’s Rabi crop in terms of yield, production,
1947 kg per hectare. Fiscal year 2023-24 indicates a and area:
rebound in the yield, with paddy reaching 2516 kg per
hectare and maize at 2192 kg per hectare. Area
Figure 6.9 depicts the year-wise area of the state sown
with Rabi crops. Compared to the other crops planted
Figure 6.6: Year-Wise Production of Millets, Pulses and Oilseeds
438.12 448.59
450 397.09
400 348.82
350
300
'000 Tonnes
250
200 32.96 33.34
150 33.69
29.52
14.32
100 17.711 18.068
13.616
50
0
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Year
148
Figure 6.7: Year-Wise yield of Paddy and Maize
6000
5000
4000
IN KG/HECTARE
3000
2000
1000
0
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24*
Maize 1986 651.84 2225 1947 2192
Paddy 2661 2926 3042 2308 2516
Paddy Maize
Figure 6.8: Year-Wise Yield of Millets, Pulses and Oilseeds
2500.00
2000.00
IN KG/HECTARE
1500.00
1000.00
500.00
0.00
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Millets 2337.66 2170.77 2312.45 2322.00
Pulses 947 987 1007 998
Oilseeds 924 910 980 999
149
Figure 6.9: Year-Wise description of the Area of Rabi Crops (in ‘000 hectares)
500
450
400
350
IN '000 HECTARES
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Wheat 214.78 232.76 227.56 204.40
Maize 7.66 12.33 12.15 30.83
Pulses 372.24 418.33 409.85 378.94
Oilseeds 331.69 477.39 460.53 431.09
YEAR
Wheat Maize Pulses Oilseeds
during the same season, pulses and oilseeds are grown patterns. Mustard production, being the predominant
on a larger scale. Pulses and oilseeds were grown on oilseed, peaked at 343.57 thousand tonnes in 2020-21
409.85 thousand hectares and 460.53 thousand hectares, before gradually decreasing to 320.14 thousand tonnes
respectively, in 2021-22. Maize is a crop that is cultivated in 2022-23.
in both the seasons. From 7.66 thousand hectares in
2019-20 to 30.83 thousand hectares in 2022-23, more Yield
land was sown with maize seeds. Wheat, a significant Cropping yield is a key metric of agricultural
crop grown during the Rabi season has shown a decline productivity, providing a framework for determining
from 227.56 thousand hectares in 2022-23to 204.40 whether a landscape supports the way of life of those
thousand hectares in 2022-23. who farm the land. In the case of wheat, the yield
Production per hectare experienced a slight increase from 2046
kg/ ha in 2019-20 to 2337 kg/ ha in 2020-21 before a
Jharkhand’s production of major Rabi crops from the subsequent decrease to 2282.33 kg/ ha in 2021-22 and
agricultural years 2019-20 to 2022-23 reveals notable further to 2145.52 kg in 2022-23 (Figure 6.10). Maize,
trends. As reflected from Table 6.4, wheat, a staple Rabi another significant Rabi crop, witnessed a decrease in
crop, exhibited fluctuations in production, reaching a yield from 2099 kg/ ha in 2019-20 to 1621.96 kg/ha in
peak of 543.96 thousand tonnes in the subsequent year 2022-23, indicating a fluctuating trend.
2020-21, followed by a decline to 238.54 thousand
tonnes in 2022-23. Maize production exhibited a steady Cropping Intensity
increase, rising from 16.04 thousand tonnes in 2019-20 Cropping intensity is defined as the number of crops a
to 50.00 thousand tonnes in 2022-23. While Masoor and farmer grows in a given agricultural year on the same
Gram, specific pulse varieties, experienced fluctuations, field. It is expressed through the following formula:
pea and other Rabi pulses showed a declining trend in
production. Rabi oilseeds, including Mustard, Linseed,
Safflower, and Rabi Sunflower, demonstrated diverse
150
Table 6.4: Production level of Major Rabi crops in Jharkhand from 2019-20 to 2022-23
(in ‘000 Tonnes)
Category 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Wheat 439.40 543.96 519.36 238.54
Maize 16.04 28.42 28.82 50.00
Rabi Pulses 417.75 482.72 449.7 412.73
Masoor 52.92 63.76 57.62 48.47
Gram 275.50 334.34 308.57 291.63
Pea 74.70 70.19 68.24 61.57
Other Rabi Pulses 14.63 14.42 15.27 11.06
Rabi Oilseeds 254.82 371.8 364.73 348.12
Mustard 231.35 343.57 332.79 320.14
Lin seed 23.09 27.69 31.76 27.86
Safflower 0.16 0.45 0.17 0.04
Rabi Sunflower 0.22 0.09 0.14 0.09
Figure 6.10: Year-Wise Yield of Rabi Crops
10000.00
9000.00
8000.00
YIELD (KG/HECTARE)
7000.00
6000.00
5000.00
4000.00
3000.00
2000.00
1000.00
0.00
Wheat Maize Pulses Oilseeds
2022-23 2145.52 1621.96 1089 808
2021-22 2282.33 2372.59 1097 792
2020-21 2337.00 2305.00 1154 779
2019-20 2046.00 2099.00 1122 768
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
151
Box 6.1: El Nino and its Effect on Jharkhand Agriculture

“El Niño,” a Spanish word, means a ‘small boy’ or ‘Christ kid’. South American fishermen in the 17th century
discovered it due to exceptionally warm Pacific waters in December. El Niño is a periodic phenomenon marked
by high sea surface temperatures in the central and east-central Equatorial Pacific and high air pressure in the
western Pacific. This harms Indian monsoons and agriculture.
Jharkhand, a state highly dependent on monsoons for agriculture, faces potential challenges due to the El Niño-
Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle. El Niño, signifying warmer conditions, and La Niña, indicating cooler
conditions, influence tropical Pacific Ocean parameters, including sea surface temperatures and wind patterns.
Before 2023, India enjoyed consecutive years of ‘normal’ and ‘above-normal’ monsoon rainfall. However, the El
Niño conditions, characterized by elevated sea surface temperatures near South America, can weaken monsoon
winds and result in drier conditions in India. This phenomenon adversely affects agriculture and the Indian
economy.
In August, India experienced the driest month in almost a century, primarily attributed to the substantial monsoon
shortfall influenced by El Niño. With 70% of agricultural rainfall dependent on the monsoon, crops like sugar,
legumes, cereals, and vegetables may face challenges, potentially leading to increased food prices and inflation.
India might have to consider reducing exports of essential commodities like rice, wheat, and sugar, impacting
global trade.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported varied rainfall patterns across the country. While some
regions experienced abundant rainfall, others faced moderate or insufficient precipitation. Jharkhand, among the
states with insufficient rainfall, reported a 27% deficit. Climate Trends, an independent research organization,
highlighted below-average monsoon rainfall in regions like the southern peninsula, east, and northeast India.
Kerala, Jharkhand, and Bihar specifically faced significant rainfall deficits.
The impact of El Niño extends beyond meteorological concerns, influencing India’s agricultural policies and
global trade practices. Measures such as limitations on rice shipments, export levies on onions, duty-free imports
of pulses, and potential bans on sugar exports have been implemented to navigate the challenges posed by El
Niño.
In conclusion, Jharkhand, like other regions in India, grapples with the consequences of El Niño on its agricultural
landscape. The state’s vulnerability to insufficient rainfall necessitates strategic measures to safeguard its
agricultural sector and ensure food security for its residents.
The cropping intensity in Jharkhand witnessed hectares in 2019-20, before a subsequent increase to
fluctuations over the financial years, as evidenced by the 1845 thousand hectares in 2021-22. In tandem, the net
following percentages: 144.55% in 2019-20, 144.96% sown area followed a similar trajectory, diminishing
in 2020-21, and a marginal decline to 143.78% in 2021- from 1444 thousand hectares in 2017-18 to 1291
22. However, a notable surge occurred in 2022-23, with thousand hectares in 2019-20 and then expanding
the cropping intensity reaching a significant high of to 1378 thousand hectares in 2021-22 (Figure 6.12).
171.58% (Figure 6.11). This dynamic trend indicates These fluctuations suggest inherent variability in
the variability in agricultural practices and utilization land utilization practices and agricultural patterns in
of arable land in Jharkhand, with the recent spike Jharkhand over the specified financial years.
suggesting intensified agricultural activities during the
specified financial year. Agricultural Inputs
The gross cropped area experienced a reduction from The productivity of agriculture depends not merely on
2033 thousand hectares in 2017-18 to 1760 thousand the fertility of soil and climatic conditions of the state
152
Figure 6.11: Year-wise cropping Intensity in Jharkhand
171.58%
180.00%
170.00% 144.55% 144.96% 143.78%
CROPPING INTENSITY
160.00%
150.00%
140.00%
130.00%
120.00%
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
YEAR
Source: Directorate of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand
Figure 6.12: Year-Wise Cropping Intensity, Gross Cropped Area and Net Sown Area in Jharkhand
2500
2000
'000 hectares
1500
1000
500
0
2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
YEAR
Gross Cropped Area Net Sown Area
but also on agricultural inputs. Such inputs include enabling technology adoption, and mitigating regional
irrigation, seed, fertilizers, pesticides, credit and farm rainfall variations. The total irrigated area dedicated
machinery. In this section, an attempt has been made to to food crops exhibited a notable increase, rising from
discuss the adequacy of agricultural inputs in Jharkhand. 2,37,862 hectares in 2020-21 to 2,67,951 hectares in
2021-22 (Figure 6.13). Similarly, the irrigated area for
Irrigation non-food crops also experienced growth, escalating
Adequate and timely water access is pivotal for from 20,436 hectares to 22,881 hectares over the same
agricultural sustainability, enhancing productivity, period as indicated in Table 6.5.This data highlights
153
Table 6.5: Crop-Wise irrigated Area (in hectares)

Food Crops 2020-21 2021-22
1. Cereals and Millets 137319 159046
2. Pulses 14631 20064
3.Total Fruits and Vegetables 83995 86518
Total Food Crops (A) 237862 267951
Non-Food Crops
1. Oilseeds 20310 22881
2. Other Non-Food Crops 126 -
Total Non-Food Crops (B) 20436 22881
Total Irrigated Area (A+B) 258298 290832
the critical role of irrigation in enhancing agricultural Figure 6.14 indicates variations in the area under
productivity, contributing significantly to the cultivation double and multiple crops in Jharkhand over the
of both food and non-food crops. financial years from 2019-20 to 2022-23. In 2019-20,
the recorded area was 926.355 hectares, followed by
Double Cropping and Multiple Cropping an increase to 1140.81 hectares in 2020-21. Although
Double cropping and multiple cropping are agricultural there was a slight decrease in 2021-22 to 1110.361
practices that involve growing two or more crops on hectares, the trend continued with a further reduction
the same piece of land within a single growing season. to 1045.254 hectares in 2022-23. These fluctuations
These practices contribute significantly to maximizing highlight dynamic patterns in the cultivation of double
agricultural productivity and increasing the overall and multiple crops over the specified financial years,
yield per unit area.
Figure 6.13: Crop-Wise irrigated Area (in hectares)
300000
250000
200000
Hectares
150000
100000
50000
0
2020-21 2021-22
Total Non Food Crops (B) 20436 22881
Total Food Crops (A) 237862 267951
Total Food Crops (A) Total Non Food Crops (B)
154
Figure 6.14: Area under double and multiple crops (in ‘000 hectares)
2022-23 1045.254
2021-22 1110.361
YEAR
2020-21 1140.81
2019-20 926.355
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

'000 hectares
reflecting potential shifts in agricultural practices and Sustainable irrigation: Micro irrigation in
land utilization strategies in Jharkhand. Jharkhand
The future of sustainable agriculture lies in micro-
irrigation. Micro-irrigation can not only assist in
enhancing agricultural productivity but also reduce the
Figure 6.15: Area Covered under Micro Irrigation (as on 31.03.2022)
18211
Sprinkler
30056
Drip
0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000 35000

Value in hectares
Source: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2022, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India.
155
usage of e-water, fertiliser, and labour requirements in Net Irrigated Area

an era of climate change and water scarcity.
Net irrigated area refers to the portion of cultivated
Micro irrigation is a modern method of irrigation. land that receives water through artificial means,
Using this method water is irrigated through drippers, typically through irrigation systems such as canals,
sprinklers, floggers and other emitters on the surface or tube wells, pumps, or other water supply mechanisms.
the sub-surface of the land. Drip irrigation is best suited This measurement considers the actual area effectively
for wider-spacing crops, while the micro sprinkler irrigated, excluding any redundancies or overlaps
irrigation system is mostly followed in sandy or loamy in coverage. Net irrigated area is a crucial metric in
soils. In terms of sustainable methods, 62 per cent of assessing the utilization of irrigation resources in
cultivation employed sprinkler technology while the agriculture, as it reflects the land that directly benefits
remaining 38 per cent utilized through drip irrigation from irrigation practices and contributes to increased
(Figure 6.15). agricultural productivity.
Gross Irrigated Area While gross irrigated area ranged from 247 thousand
hectares in 2017-18 to 291 thousand in 2021-22, the net
The gross irrigated area is the total area under crops. It
irrigated area increased from 231 thousand hectares in
is irrigated once and/or multiple times in a year. Thus, if
2017-18 to 278 thousand in 2021-22.(Figure 6.16).
a crop is grown for more than one time in an agricultural
year, the gross irrigated area will count the irrigated area Wells (33 per cent) serve as the primary source of
for ‘more than once’. Gross irrigated area has shown a irrigation, followed by other sources, tanks and canals
promising increase in the State over the years. as can be seen from Figure 6.17.
Figure 6.16: Year-Wise Status of Gross Irrigated Area and Net Irrigated Area
300 249 278 300
291
290 242
231 231 250
280
Area in 000 hectares
Area in 000 hectares
200
270 269
260 258 150
249
250 247
100
240
50
230
220 0
2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
Gross irrigated Area Net Irrigated Area
Source: RBI Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2022-23 and https://aps.dac.gov.in/LUS/Public/Reports.aspx
156
Figure 6.17: Source-Wise Gross Irrigated Area in Jharkhand (in hectares) as in 2021-22
4472, 2%
97282, 33% 94210, 32%
94868, 33%
Canal Tank Well Other Sources
Fertilizers Kharif crops has decreased to 41,712 tonnes in 2022-23

from 56,428 tonnes in 2021-22.
The usage of proper fertilizer is considered an important
and a vital factor for improving the productivity of the The table 6.7 contains information on the yearly
agricultural sector. The state has recorded an increase in usage of different fertilizers, including UREA,
the usage of chemical fertilizers. Fertilizers like DAP, DAP (Diammonium Phosphate), NPKS (Nitrogen-
NPKS, MOP and urea are used widely. The trend in the Phosphorus-Potassium-Sulphur), and MOP (Muriate
consumption of fertilizers during the Kharif, as well of Potash). The measurements are in metric tonnes and
as the Rabi season, is presented in Tables 6.6 and 6.7 cover the period from the fiscal year 2016-17 to 2022-
respectively. 23. Different patterns in fertilizer consumption become
apparent over this time frame. The consumption of Urea,
Urea remains the most utilized fertilizer, followed by a nitrogen-based fertilizer, saw oscillations over time. It
DAP, NPKS, and MOP. The consumption of urea, a reached its highest point during the fiscal year 2016-
nitrogen-based fertilizer, reached its peak during the 17, with a usage of 56,548 metric tonnes. However, it
period of 2020-21, totalling 164,639 metric tonnes. then fluctuated and declined to 87,220 metric tonnes in
The DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) exhibited notable 2020-21. This suggests possible changes in agricultural
fluctuations, with a notable surge from 2016-17 to techniques or demand. The usage of DAP exhibited
2017-18, reaching a total of 62,200 metric tonnes. This diverse tendencies, reaching its highest point in 2018-19
increase might be attributed to changes in crop patterns at 20,062 metric tonnes, while undergoing oscillations
or modifications in farming practices. in the following years. NPKS and MOP, fertilizer
Currently, another popular fertilizer known as DAP containing several nutrients, exhibited different
(chemical name Di-ammonium Phosphate) which patterns. NPKS reached its highest point in 2021-22,
contains both Nitrogen and Phosphorus, the primary with a utilization of 10,205 metric tonnes.
micro-nutrients, is being preferred over urea. The
consumption of DAP also depicts the same trend as that
of urea. The DAP consumption during the season of
157
Table 6.6: Year-Wise Consumption of fertilizer (in tonnes) during the Kharif Season
Season/Year UREA DAP NPKS MOP Total
2016-17 140433 34683 7790 1728 184634
2017-18 138815 62200 8385 2688 212088
2018-19 116386 63825 22675 4307 207193
2019-20 150811 63319 21609 4785 240524
2020-21 164639 72787 21027 4809 263262
2021-22 136963 56428 33582 3443 230416
2022-23 137796 41712 24245 1229 204982
Consumption of compost fertilizer institutional financing for investments in technological

advancements, seedlings, and agricultural apparatus,
Compost, a recycled organic material, enhances all of which contribute to increased productivity and
plant nutrient management and productivity which output.
has witnessed substantial growth in recent years.
Specifically, its consumption has escalated from 2,486 Jharkhand witnessed a substantial expansion in
metric tons in 2018-19 to 11,918 metric tons in 2020- agricultural financing, notably with the implementation
21. As shown in Figure 6.18 there was an increase in the of the 2012 Kisan Credit Card (KCC) system. In 2022–
quantity of compost fertilizer from 5455 MT in the year 23, 181,730 new KCC accounts were created, disbursing
2021-22 to 9276 MT in the year 2022-23. Rs. 1,13,279.75 lakhs. The number of accounts (1.87%)
and the disbursed amount (9.91%) increased by
Agricultural Finance September 30, 2022, resulting in a 66.48% achievement
The chapter places particular emphasis in this section rate for the combined agriculture categories (Table 6.8).
on two facets of agricultural finance, namely agriculture The corresponding amount target and achievement were
insurance and agricultural credit. 13,27,417.64 lakhs and 8,82,508.62 lakhs, respectively
Agricultural Finance: Considering the fact that as can be seen from the table 6.9 and figure 6.19.
the majority of farmers in the state are minor and
marginal, timely access to agricultural credit at a
reasonable rate is essential for agricultural expansion.
In addition, agricultural credit facilitates access to
Table 6.7: Year-Wise Consumption of fertilizer (in tonnes) during the Rabi Season
Season/Year UREA DAP NPKS MOP Total
2016-17 56548 25180 6873 1191 89792
2017-18 83232 19770 5928 510 109440
2018-19 112981 20062 18564 360 151967
2019-20 100392 22440 13044 20 135896
2020-21 87220 20339 7575 53 115187
2021-22 117074 21771 10205 25 149075
2022-23 113957 33719 19333 3015 170024
158
Figure 6.18: Year-Wise Consumption of Compost Fertilizer (in MT) in Jharkhand
14000
11918
12000
10000 9276
IN MILLION TONNES
8000
5825
6000
5455
4000
2000 2486
0
2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Compost Fer�lizer 2486 5825 11918 5455 9276
YEAR
Table 6.8: Agricultural Credit - Bank Category-Wise Status of KCC in Jharkhand

(Number in Actual and Amount in Lakhs)
Out of the total
Outstanding as of FY 2021- Total disbursement Growth/Decline over KCC issued, No. KCC Activated
Category
22 during FY 2022-23 September 30, 2022 of Rupay Cards Cards
issued
Number Amount Number Amount Number (%) Amount(%) Number Number
Public Sector 9,02,483 4,43,325.82 93,484 33,985.01 2.91 11.57 5,42,080.00 2,23,873.00
Banks
Private sector 23,960 29,314.38 6,923 3,161.49 1.59 6.81 7,741.00 7,548.00
banks
Regional Rural 3,82,110 2,15,388.93 80,429 75,689.84 -0.64 7.01 2,87,861.00 2,87,861.00
Bank
Co-operative 9,573 4,401.99 894 443.41 5.02 5.94 256.00 252.00
Banks
Total 13,18,126 6,92,431.12 1,81,730 1,13,279.75 1.87 9.91 8,37,938.00 5,19,534.00
Source: 82nd State Level Banking Committee, Jharkhand
159
Table 6.9: Annual Credit Plan Achievement under Agriculture, Jharkhand 2023-24 (Number in
Actuals and Amount in Lakhs)
Target Achievement Achievement %
Category
Number Amount Number Amount (Amount)
Farm Credit 14,26,599.00 11,30,715.64 14,36,760.00 7,54,858.91 66.76
Crop Loan 10,92,773.00 7,28,515.64 6,30,167.00 3,34,701.76 45.94
Agri Infrastructure 32,221.00 53,702.00 514.00 1,473.82 2.74
Ancillary Activities 1,28,700.00 1,43,000.00 51,918.00 1,26,175.89 88.23
Total 15,87,521.00 13,27,417.64 14,89,192.00 8,82,508.62 66.48
Source: 82nd State Level Banking Committee, Jharkhand
Agricultural Insurance there has been a persistent increase in the proportion

of area insured since 2016-17.The agriculture insurance
Considering the coverage of the agricultural insurance scheme received 44.62 lakh farmer applications,
scheme in the State, it is overwhelming to observe that covering 19.4 lakh hectares of insured agricultural
Figure 6.19: Year-Wise Target and Achievement of Annual Credit Plan
1400000 70.00
1200000 60.00
Achievement in Percentage
1000000 50.00
Target in Lakhs
800000 40.00
600000 30.00
400000 20.00
200000 10.00
0 0.00
2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Target (amount) Achievement % (Amount)
Source: 82st State Level Banking Committee, Jharkhand
Table 6.10: Progress under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) & Restructured Weather
Based Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS)-Combined from 2016-17 to 2022-23
Total Farmer Area Insured Farmers Share Gross Total Claims Paid Claims
Sum Insured
Applications (In (In Lakhs in Premium Premium (In (In Rs (In Rs
(In Rs Crore)
Lakhs) Hectare) (In Rs Crore) Rs Crore) Crore) Crore)
44.62 19.4 10733.48 75.15 1236.76 572.72 98.08

Source: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance 2022, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India.
160
Box 6.2: NABARD’s Enhanced Credit Plan of 43,725 Crores for Jharkhand: A Focus on
Agricultural and Industrial Growth
NABARD organized a major State lending Seminar in Ranchi, Jharkhand, where they presented a strong lending
plan of Rs. 43,725 crores for the fiscal year 2023-24. This marked a significant increase of Rs. 9,267 crores
compared to the previous year’s budget of Rs. 34,458 crores. The seminar themed, ‘Proliferation of State Budget
with Credit Plan,’ emphasized upon a strategic focus on promoting financial empowerment and developmental
growth.
At the event, MS Rao, the Chief General Manager of NABARD, highlighted the crucial importance of Farmer
Producer Organizations (FPOs) and pushed for the incorporation of innovative agricultural technologies to
support the farming community. Rao delivered a detailed State Focus Paper on behalf of NABARD, explaining
the opportunities for equitable development in all 24 districts. The projected financing effort of Rs. 15,000 crores,
aimed at the state’s agricultural loan of Rs. 4,000 crores, signifies a significant increase in financial assistance
for farmers, women, and youth. The objective of this strategic financial intervention is to reduce unemployment,
poverty, and migration by strengthening the agricultural industry.
Furthermore, NABARD’s dedicated attention to micro, small, and medium sectors, which aligns with the federal
government’s objectives, is demonstrated by a planned loan allocation of Rs. 22,071.87 crore. This strong
dedication, which accounts for 51% of the total lending capacity, aims to support the expansion of industries and
enhance economic stability in the state.
NABARD’s proactive actions, implemented through enhanced loan programs, are designed to stimulate diverse
economic growth, promoting agricultural prosperity and creating a favourable climate for emerging industries,
ultimately strengthening Jharkhand’s economy.
land. The sum insured amounted to Rs 10,733.48 crore, Cold storage is the key requirement in the post-
reflecting the substantial financial coverage provided to harvest phase and also in the distribution of perishable
farmers against potential losses. Farmers contributed commodities and food products. It facilitates the
Rs 75.15 crore towards premiums, indicating their delivery of perishable agricultural products like fruits,
participation in the insurance scheme. In terms of vegetables, etc. from the production centres to the
claims, the program faced total claims amounting to consumption centres. The cold storage capacity in
Rs 572.72 crore, with Rs 98.08 crore disbursed as paid Jharkhand on the reported date i.e.,November 30, 2022,
claims. was 236680 metric tonnes.
Storage Capacity Table 6.11: Cold storage capacity as on
30.11.2022
Storage is an important marketing function, which
involves holding and preserving food grains from No. of Projects Capacity (Metric Tonnes)
the time of production until they are needed for
58 236680
consumption. The storage of food grains, therefore,
ensures a continuous flow of food grains in the market. Source: Agriculture Statistics at a Glance 2022, Ministry of
Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
The State has witnessed a continuous increase in the
storage capacity over the years. From 2.9 LMT in The storage capacity for food grains and utilization
March, 2017 it rose significantly to 5.51 LMT in March in the state as per the Food Corporation of India is
2019, as shown in Figure 6.20. The storage capacity, mentioned in Table 6.11. As reflected in Table 6.12, the
which was 0.23 LMT in March 2020, experienced a overall capacity has increased from 3.79 lakhs metric
rapid drop before rising to 4.08 LMT in March 2021 tonnes in 2019 to 4.28 lakhs metric tonnes in 2022. In
and further rising to 4.28 LMT in March 2022. 2023, stocks have decreased to 1.85 lakhs metric tonnes
161
Figure 6.20: Year-Wise Storage Capacity
6 5.51
Storage Capacity ( in Lakhs MT)
5
4.28
4.08
3.68
4
2.9
3
1
0.23
0
March, 2017 March, 2018 March, 2019 March, 2020 March, 2021 March, 2022
Year
Source: Agriculture Statistics at a Glance 2022, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
(MT), while utilisation has decreased from 96 percent use of agricultural land, as it allows farmers to derive
in 2019 to 47 percent in 2023. several benefits from it.
Table 6.12: Storage Capacity for Food-Grains Although Jharkhand is not now a prominent producer
and Utilization under the FCI (as on March, of horticultural crops, its advantageous agro-climatic
31) (In lakhs MT) conditions suggest that it possesses a significant
potential in this regard.
Total Utilization
Year Stocks Held Vegetables
Capacity %
2019 3.79 3.64 96 Figure 6.21 shows the annual vegetable planting and
2020 3.9 3.63 93 harvesting area. From 2018–19 to 2022–23, the area
2021 4.06 3.48 85 used for vegetable cultivation increased from 3507.316
2022 4.28 3.21 75 thousand hectares to 4219.877 thousand hectares.
2023* 3.96 1.85 47 Although this growth has been erratic, the overall
expansion of farmland is indicative of agricultural
*As on April, 2023
diversification. Since 2018-19, the state’s vegetable
Source: Handbook of Statistics on Indian States, RBI
harvest has increased annually until 2021-22 and
Horticulture decreased slightly in 2022-23. Vegetable yields have
seen an increase from 293.88 thousand tonnes in 2018-
Horticulture plays a crucial role in sustaining the 19 to 305.28 thousand tonnes in 2022-23.
livelihoods of impoverished farmers’ enabling them
to have a consistent source of revenue and ensuring In the agricultural landscape of Jharkhand, Potato
environmental integrity. Horticulture, thus, is an (755590 tonnes) was the most-grown vegetable in
excellent and versatile method for maximising the 2022-23. It was followed by pea (359560 tonnes) and
162
Box 6.3: Lac Cultivation Attains Agricultural Status in Jharkhand: Fostering Livelihood and
Economic Opportunities
In the recent cabinet meeting, chaired by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, an important decision was
reached to officially acknowledge lac farming as an agricultural activity in the state. This ruling represents a
significant breakthrough for the lac cultivation business. Cabinet Secretary Vandana Dadel affirmed that this
measure would benefit over five hundred thousand agricultural households in twelve districts, specifically Khunti,
Gumla, Singhbhum, Latehar, Garhwa, and Hazaribagh.
Jharkhand is the biggest producer of lacquer in India, highlighting the significance of lac farming in the state’s
agricultural industry. The advantageous characteristics of Jharkhand, such as its favourable atmosphere and
abundant resources, render it an optimal location for lac production. These circumstances generate ideal conditions
for farmers engaged in this occupation.
The numbers emphasize the state’s remarkable annual production of 15-16 thousand tonnes of lac, underscoring
the fact that this agricultural activity plays a vital role in supporting a substantial population’s livelihood. Lac
cultivators derive a substantial 25 percent of their total income alone from this industry, underscoring its crucial
contribution to their financial well.
Legal recognition of lac farming as agriculture in Jharkhand not only acknowledges its economic significance
but also opens avenues for increased support and development, fostering socio-economic empowerment and
sustained growth.
cabbage (297900 tonnes). Bitter Gourd was the least- 6.13 shows how much land each type of vegetable
grown vegetable in the state (35861 tonnes). In 2022- occupies and the quantity that is produced from it.
23, 50268 hectares of land was used to grow potato, and
3830 hectares were used to grow Bitter Gourd. Table
Figure 6.21: Year-Wise Area and Production of Vegetable
320 4500
315 4000
310 3500
Area in '000 hectare
Pdtn in '000 Tonnes
3000
305
2500
300
2000
295
1500
290 1000
285 500
280 0
2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23*
Produc�on 293.882 302.565 310.581 316.727 305.285
Area 3507.316 3595.033 3784.745 4184.301 4219.877
Axis Title
Produc�on Area
Source: Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand
163
Table 6.13: Area and Production of different types of Vegetables (Area in ‘000 Hectares &
Production in ‘000 Tonnes)
Vegetables Total (2022-23) *
Area (in ‘000 hectares) Production (in ‘000tonnes)
Beans 41.772 206.885
Bitter Gourd 3.828 35.861
Bottle Gourd 4.533 62.851
Brinjal 16.582 184.484
Cabbage 19.963 297.897
Capsicum 4.018 62.735
Carrot 2.954 50.315
Cauliflower 22.799 314.772
Green Chili 16.334 268.34
Cucumber 7.063 70.122
Pumpkin 2.276 115.035
Okra 10.032 162.39
Onion 18.452 281.38
Pea (Green) 17.845 359.559
Potato 50.268 755.594
Radish 4.99 106.294
Tomato 23.629 305.328
Other vegetables 21.234 295.482
Total 288.572 3935.324
Figure 6.22: Year-Wise Area and Production of Fruits
112 1350
110 1300
Produc�on in '000 Tonnes
Area in '000 Tonnes
1250
108
1200
106
1150
104
1100
102 1050
100 1000
2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23*
Area 104.08 105.317 105.281 109.379 111.361
Produc�on 1118.365 1153.477 1285.693 1312.454 1264.57
Area Produc�on
164
Fruits fertilizer. There are more than 2.36 crores of livestock

and about 2.48 crores of poultry in the state (Table 6.15)
Since 2018-19, the area of production for
fruits cultivation in Jharkhand has increased. In 2018- The sheep population has significantly increased, from
19, 104.08 thousand hectares of land was used to grow 582,925 in 2012 to 6,641,183 in 2019. This is a surge of
fruits, which has been indicated in Figure 6.22. In 2022- 1039.29 percent. In contrast, goats have seen a moderate
23, the area has increased to 111.36 thousand hectares. growth rate of only 38.59 percent. The population of
In the state in 2018-19, 1118.365 thousand tonnes of Mules has experienced a significant decline, namely by
fruits were grown, and in 2021-22, that number rose 98.12 percent. The numbers of horses and ponies have
to 1312.454 thousand tonnes which further declined to also witnessed a substantial reduction with a decline of
1264.57 thousand tonnes. 75.85 percent. The cattle, however, saw a growth rate of
30.81 percent, whilst the poultry exhibited a growth rate
In 2022-23, the most-grown fruit was Mango followed of 83.14 percent (Table 6.16).
by jackfruit and guava. In 2022-23, 518.53 thousand
tonnes of mango were produced followed by 212.13 Animal-derived products such as meat, eggs, and milk
are excellent sources of micronutrients and high-quality
Table 6.14: Year-Wise Area and Production of different types of fruits

(Area in ‘000 Hectares & Production in ‘000 MT)
Fruits Total (2022-23) *

Area (in ‘000 hectares) Production (in ‘000 tonnes)
Bengal Quince 787 9.412
Indian Gooseberry 0.348 36.68
Guava 8.986 99.038
Banana 5.824 40.454
Jackfruit 15.404 212.132
Litchi 4.196 65.829
Mango 60.19 518.531
Papaya 3.158 45.759
Pomegranate 0.026 0.105
Other Fruits 2.124 23.079
Total 101.043 1051.019
*(2nd Advance Estimate)
thousand tonnes of jackfruit. The area and production of protein, crucial for optimal development and growth.
different types of fruits have been given in Table 6.14. Milk production in Jharkhand witnessed a substantial
growth rising from 18.94 lakhs MT in 2016–17 to 26.29
Livestock and Poultry lakhs MT in 2021–22 (figure 6.24). The quantity of eggs
Livestock is integral to farmers’ economic well-being, produced has increased by 72 percent between 2016-
where mixed husbandry integrates agriculture and 17 and 2021-22. Furthermore, meat production has
animal rearing, optimizing resource use. Livestock increased consistently over the years, from 0.55 lakhs
provides essential products like dairy, poultry, and MT in 2016–17 to 0.79 lakhs MT in 2021-22 (figure
protein sources, and their waste serves as valuable 6.23).
165
Table 6.15: Total Livestock and Poultry

Cattle 1,12,23,052 Dogs 1,20,396
Buffaloes 13,50,313 Rabbits 24,207
Sheep 66,41,183 Fowl 2,30,04,582
Goats 91,21,173 Ducks 17,04,990
Horses and Ponies 1,378 Turkeys 34,278
Mules 73 Other Poultry Birds 60,480
Donkeys 400 Total Livestock 2,36,14,545
Pigs 12,76,973 Total Poultry 2,48,32,906
Source: 20th Livestock Census-2019, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India
Table 6.16: Total Livestock and Poultry and change between 2012 and 2019
2019 2012 % Change from 2012
Cattle 1,12,23,052 87,30,083 28.56
Buffaloes 13,50,313 11,85,942 13.86
Sheep 66,41,183 5,82,925 1,039.29
Goats 91,21,173 65,81,449 38.59
Horses and Ponies 1,378 5,706 -75.85
Mules 73 3,890 -98.12
Donkeys 400 381 4.99
Pigs 12,76,973 9,62,367 32.69
Total Livestock 2,36,14,545 1,80,52,746 30.81
Total Poultry 2,48,32,906 1,35,59,528 83.14
Source: 20th Livestock Census-2019, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India
Wool Fisheries
Wool is a natural fibre derived from animal hair One of the most promising areas of food production
composed of complex protein fibres. The hair of sheep has been fishing and aquaculture. This sector not only
and goats is especially useful for making clothes. Wool contributes significantly to food production, but also
is the most important fibre obtained from an animal. It plays a vital role in employment in rural areas.
comes from the woolly coats of sheep, goats, camels,
and other animals. Wool is to make clothes and other Fish production in Jharkhand
textiles by different tribes and nations around the world The production of fish in Jharkhand has increased
for thousands of years. Wool production in Jharkhand substantially between 2017-18 and 2021-22. In 2017-
has increased from 1,87,000 kg in 2017-18 to 2,1,7000 18, 1.90 lakh tonnes of fish were produced, while the
kg in 2020-21 as can be seen from figure 6.25. fish production in 2021-22 stood at 2.57 lakh tonnes.
The production increased to 2.08 lakh tonnes in 2018-
19 which further increased by 7.2 percent in 2019-20. In
2021-22, the fish production reached 2.57 lakh tonnes
166
Figure 6.23: Year-Wise production of Livestock Products (eggs and meat)
1.8000 0.7868
1.6000 0.7024
0.6725
1.4000 0.6248
0.5755
1.2000 0.5473
1.0000 0.8760
0.7750
0.8000 0.6930
0.6380
0.5100 0.5530
0.6000
0.4000
0.2000
0.0000
2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22
Egg (Number in billion) Meat (in Lakh MT)
Figure 6.24: Year-Wise production of Milk in the state.
2021-22 26.2937
2020-21 24.3402
2019-20 23.2116
Year
2018-19 21.8305
2017-18 20.1562
2016-17 18.9380
0.0000 5.0000 10.0000 15.0000 20.0000 25.0000 30.0000

Lakhs MT
167
and this shows an upward trajectory. Figure 6.26 shows stood at 41,501 lakh fry, and this figure experienced a
the yearly fish production in Jharkhand. substantial surge in the subsequent years. By 2017-18,
the production more than doubled, reaching 103,349 lakh
Over the years, there has been a notable increase in fish fry, and this upward trend continued into 2018-19 with a
seed production in the region, as evidenced by the data slightly higher production of 103,629 lakh fry. The most
from 2016-17 to 2020-21. In 2016-17, the production recent data from 2020-21 indicates continued growth,
Figure 6.25: Year-Wise Wool Production in Jharkhand
220
215
210
Wool in '000 Kg
205
200
195
190
185
180
175
170
2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21
Wool (in '000 Kg) 187 199 210 217
Year
Source: Agriculture Statistics at a Glance 2021, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India
Figure 6.26: Year-Wise Fish Production in Jharkhand (Production in lakh tonnes)
2021-22 2.57
2020-21 2.38
Year
2019-20 2.23
2018-19 2.08
2017-18 1.90
0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00

Fish produc on in Lakh Tonnes
Source: Handbook on Fisheries Statistics, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India
168
Table 6.17: Year-Wise Fish Seed Production in Jharkhand (Production in Lakh Fry)
Year Fish seed production (in Lakh Fry)
2016-17 41501
2017-18 103349
2017-19 103629
2019-20 105692
2020-21 114950
Table 6.18: Fisherpersons’ Population in Jharkhand and their Classification

Nature Fishermen Fisherwomen
Full Time 14,500 3,200
Part Time 34,450 12,800
Occasional 35,700 16,200
Unspecified time 21,400 18,700
Total 94,497 46,400
with fish seed production reaching 114,950 lakh fry The minimum temperature ranges from -5 to 0 degrees
(Table 6.17). This consistent rise in fish seed production Celsius. The period from July to September experiences
reflects positive developments in the aquaculture sector, the highest level of precipitation. It is responsible for
contributing to the overall enhancement of fisheries almost 90 percent of the state’s overall precipitation.
resources and the economy.
The primary factors contributing to this vulnerability in
Fisherpersons’ population and their classification the State are(i) dependence on rain-fed agriculture, (ii)
fluctuations in food grain yields, and the (iii) prevalence
A comprehensive description of the fisherpersons’ of marginal and small-scale farmers. The drivers of
population and their classification is provided in Table vulnerability and the number of districts that come
6.18. There were more than 1.40 lakh fisher persons in under it are presented in Figure 6.27 below. The highest
the State in the year 2019-20. Of this population, about value of the vulnerability index has been obtained for
30 per cent were fisherwomen. There are about 14,500 the Sahebganj district (0.72) and the lowest for the
full-time and 34,540 part-time fishermen. The total Ramgarh district (0.37) and this is further detailed in
number of fisherwomen stands at 46,400 out of the total Map 6.2.
population.
Government Initiatives
Agriculture and climate change
The Jharkhand government has implemented a number
Jharkhand experiences a predominantly tropical of initiatives in the fiscal year 2023–2024 to effectively
climate, characterized by an annual average rainfall of close the gaps and establish innovative methods in
around 900 mm. The state has three different seasons. agriculture and related sectors.
The period from March to mid-June experiences
elevated temperatures. In May, the lowest temperatures The Birsa Seed Production, Exchange,
range from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, while the daily Distribution and Crop Diversification Scheme
highs reach around 37 degrees Celsius. The most
pleasurable period of the year occurs during the frigid The Birsa Seed Production, Exchange, Distribution
climate season, spanning from November to February. and Crop Diversification Scheme is a state-sponsored
169
Figure 6.27: Drivers of vulnerability in Jharkhand (the length of the bars representing the number
of districts with the corresponding indicator as a driver of vulnerability)
Source: Climate Vulnerability Assessment for Adaptation Planning in India Using a Common Framework 2019-2020, Department
of Science and Technology, Government of India
Map 6.2: Map showing the vulnerability categories of Jharkhand at the district level
Source: Climate Vulnerability Assessment for Adaptation Planning in India Using a Common Framework 2019-2020, Department
of Science and Technology, Government of India
170
scheme in Jharkhand, India, that aims to increase development of the farmers, a cluster of farmers
the production, exchange, and distribution of seeds undergoes specialized training facilitated by the
of various crops. The scheme also aims to diversify establishment of the Kisan Service Centre. In the fiscal
the crops grown in the state. Under the scheme, the year 2021-22, a budget allotment of Rs 6100.00 lakhs
government provides subsidies to farmers for the was designated, focusing on the identification and
production of seeds. In 2022-23, the budget increased to recommendation of 17 Krishak Pathshalas in the 1st
Rs 6000.00 lakhs, resulting in substantial achievements phase, currently in progress. Moving into 2022-23, the
across Kharif (31,762.30 Qtl.) and Rabi (38,088.52 budget increased to Rs 9000.00 lakhs, with 26 Krishak
Qtl.) seed production. Looking ahead to 2023-24, the Pathshalas sites identified and recommended (table
budget further rose to Rs 7960.00 lakhs, reflecting 6.21). The scheme progressed further with the intention
ambitious targets for Kharif (42,911.91 Qtl.) and Rabi to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with
seed production. the respective implementing agencies. In the upcoming
fiscal year 2023-24, a budget of Rs 5000.00 lakhs
Krishi Mela has been allocated, with 14 Krishak Pathshalas sites
Agricultural fairs, known as Krishi Melas, are regularly identified and recommended.
organised to provide farmers with education on modern Agri Clinic
farming practises, including fertilisers, crop rotation
techniques, organic farming, crop diversification, Agri Clinics serve, as valuable resources for the
animal husbandry, aquaculture, and more. For the farmers, providing information and support about
fiscal year 2023-24, the overall budget allocation has various farming-related activities. For the financial year
increased to 2000 lakhs from that of 800 lakhs in the 2022-23, the budget allotment was Rs 318 Lakhs and
fiscal year 2022-23 (Table 6.20). the physical achievement was 45 Clinics. For FY 2023-
24, the budget allotment amounts to Rs 290.25 Lakhs
Integrated Birsa Village Development Scheme and the physical achievement is 36 clinics.
The scheme, also recognized as Birsa Gram Yojana,
currently operates in Jharkhand, wherein a designated Soil Health Management Scheme
village in each district is selected and titled as Birsa Soil Health Management (SHM) is one of the most
Gram. Under the initiative, which aims at holistic important interventions under NMSA.SHM aims at
Table 6.19: Progress under the Birsa Seed Production, Exchange, Distribution and Crop
Diversification
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
Budget Budget Budget

Name of Scheme Allotment Physical Allotment Physical Allotment Physical
(Rs in Achievement (Rs in Achievement (Rs in Achievement
Lakhs) Lakhs) Lakhs)
Birsa Seed Production, 2500.00 Kharif - 6000.00 Kharif - 7960.00 Kharif -

Exchange, Distribution 37194.76 Qtl. 31762.30 Qtl. 42911.91 Qtl.
and Crop Diversification Rabi - Rabi - 38088.52 Rabi -
Scheme 35363.26 Qtl. Qtl. Crop
Crop Diversification
Diversification (Birsa Fasal
(Birsa Fasal Vistar Yojana)-
Vistar Yojana)- 86 Kg
14796.84 Qtl.
171
Table 6.20: Progress under the Agriculture Fair, Workshop, Exhibition, Training, Tour and
Extension
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24

Agriculture Fair, Workshop, 1000.00 State Level 800.00 State Level 2000.00 State Level
Exhibition, Training, Tour Workshop-2 Workshop-1 Workshop-1
and Extension District Level District Level District Level
Krishi Mela- Krishi Mela- Krishi Mela-
District Level District Level District Level
Workshop - 50 Workshop - Workshop - 18
Block Level Block Level Block Level
Workshop - 376 Workshop - Workshop -
Block Level Block Level 186
Krishi Chaupal Krishi Chaupal - Block Level
- 213 Krishi Chaupal
(KCC)- 3165
promoting Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) was allotted for the scheme, with the corresponding
through the judicious use of chemical fertilizers physical achievements not specified. The budget
including secondary and micronutrients in conjunction allotment saw a significant increase in the subsequent
with organic manures and bio-fertilizers. The primary fiscal year 2022-23, reaching 2500.00 lakhs, yet the
objective is to enhance soil health and productivity. physical achievements remain unspecified. However, in
Moreover, the scheme also focuses upon strengthening the following fiscal year 2023-24, there was a notable
soil and fertilizer testing facilities to provide soil test- decrease in the budget allotment to 1000.00 lakhs, and
based recommendations to farmers for improving soil again, the physical achievements were not provided.
fertility.
Soil and Water Conservation Scheme
In the fiscal year 2021-22, a budget of 398.40 lakhs was
given, resulting in a remarkable physical achievement This scheme covers the general areas outside those not
of conducting soil tests on 120,000 samples. However, specifically covered by other packages of schemes of the
in the following fiscal year 2022-23, despite the budget Department. Its main objective is to reduce soil erosion
allotment climbing to 609.00 lakhs, the physical hazards, land degradation and conservation of water,
achievement reduced to 38,019 samples. The financial where individuals/groups of farmers are targeted. The
allotment and physical achievement remained consistent allocation for FY 2023-24 is 16,500 lakhs, aiming to
in the next fiscal year 2023-24, with 609 lakhs funded achieve 3,310 percolation tanks and 1,170 deep borings
and soil testing done on 90,000 samples. as can be seen from Table 6.22
Agri Export and Agri Marketing cum Post Establishment of Infrastructure and Rural
Harvest Infrastructure Development Scheme Agriculture Market
The scheme envisages value addition and processing at In the initial fiscal year 2021-22, a budget of 536.74
the farmer’s level to enhance their income by selling lakhs was allocated, with various activities listed under
more marketable and processed produce in the market. infrastructure strengthening, including the construction
In the fiscal year 2021-22, a budget of 1860.00 lakhs of a 1000 MT godown, strengthening works at the
172
Table 6.21: Progress under the Integrated Birsa Village Development Scheme
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
Integrated Birsa 6100.00 In the 1st phase 9000.00 26 Krishak 5000.00 14 Krishak
Village Development 17 Krishak Pathshalas Pathshalasites have
Scheme Pathshalas sites have been been identified and
have been identified and recommended. The
identified and recommended, process has been
recommended and MOUs to initiated to empanel
and the work is be signed with the respective
under progress. the respective agencies. 19th
Implementing October 2023 is the
agencies bid opening date
Agriculture Directorate, and infrastructure development Distribution of Pump Sets to Individual beneficiaries
for Laxmi Niwas. Subsequently, in 2022-23, the budget exhibited similar trends. The budget allotment was
allocation increased significantly to 1364.57 lakhs, consistent at 2500 lakhs in 2021-22 and 2022-23,
with a focus on constructing assistant quarters, officer’s with physical achievements of 5169 and 4130 units,
quarters, and Grade-IV employee quarters. respectively. Notably, in 2023-24, the budget saw a
decline to 1700 lakhs.
Agriculture Equipment to Farmers, Women
SHGs etc. Loan Waiver Scheme for Farmers
The budget allotment was 3450.00 lakhs in 2022-23, In the fiscal year 2021-22, a budget of 91,586 lakhs
with a slight increase in physical achievement to 405 was allocated, resulting in a substantial physical
units. However, in the fiscal year 2023-24, a substantial achievement of providing loan waivers to 198,858
rise was seen in the budget allotment to 10800.00 lakhs. farmers. However, in the subsequent fiscal year 2022-
Table 6.22: Progress under the Soil and Water Conservation Scheme
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
A. Pond Reconstruction 21000.00 1167 ponds 31756.28 2054 ponds (in 33500.00 Target - 2233
Scheme progress) ponds
B. Jalnidhi Yojana 15000.00 1780 Percolation 15000.00 2997 Percolation 16500.00 Target: -
Tanks and 1340 Tanks and 997 3310
Deep Boring Deep Boring (in Percolation
progress) Tanks and 1170
Deep Boring
173
Box 6.4: Soil Testing Labs to be built in 500 Schools: Gift for Jharkhand Agriculture sector
Manoj Ahuja, the Agriculture & Welfare Secretary of the Government of India, recently made a significant
announcement. He revealed intentions of the state government to create Soil Testing Labs in 500 high schools
throughout Jharkhand. This project aims to strengthen the agricultural sector of the state, marking a ground
breaking endeavour. This strategic initiative seeks to equip school pupils with the ability to do soil testing,
enabling them to evaluate soil samples from their own and nearby farmers’ farms in approved laboratories.
The State Agriculture Minister, Badal, and the Agriculture Secretary, Abu Bakar Siddiq, underscored the
program’s revolutionary effect, emphasizing its capacity to offer vital knowledge on soil composition and suggest
appropriate crop varieties for distinct land types. This effort has the potential to transform farming methods
by empowering farmers to make well-informed choices using soil test outcomes, thereby maximizing crop
production and improving agricultural efficiency.
Moreover, the implementation of a seed tracking webpage by the Government of India has been recognized
as another crucial advancement. Upon implementation in Jharkhand, this technological platform guarantees to
optimize seed distribution, hence ensuring the efficient and widespread availability of suitable and superior
quality seeds in the market.
The integration of education and agriculture in Jharkhand is exemplified by the implementation of Soil Testing
Labs in schools and the introduction of advanced technical tools such as the seed-tracking portal. This demonstrates
a forward-thinking strategy aimed at upgrading agricultural practices in the region. This all-encompassing
approach seeks to enhance the agency of the farming community, promote sustainable farming practices, and
facilitate the development of a more profitable agricultural environment within the state.
23, the budget allotment decreased to 39,100 lakhs, and conservation practices. In the fiscal year 2022-23,
the physical achievement decreased to 96,796 farmers. the Jharkhand government allocated 8447.15 lakhs,
In the following fiscal year 2023-24, both the budget ensuring benefits to 8,198 farmers and covering an area
allotment and physical achievement further reduced to of 4,868.06 hectares. Subsequently, in the fiscal year
30,000 lakhs and 34,701 farmers, respectively. 2022-23, the budget allotment decreased to 6918.38
lakhs, but the scheme expanded its impact, benefiting
National Mission on Agricultural Extension and 8,960 farmers and covering a larger area of 6,049.27
Technology hectares.
The objective of the Scheme is to make the extension Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
system farmer-driven and farmer-accountable by way
of new institutional arrangements for technology PKVY is a federal programme that stimulates the
dissemination. It aims to restructure and strengthen conversion and extension of conventional farms to
agricultural extension to enable the delivery of organic farms in clusters. It’s part of the Soil Health
appropriate technology and improved agronomic Management Scheme of the National Mission on
practices to the farmers. The overall budget allotment Sustainable Agriculture (SHM). The scheme received a
for Jharkhand for the FY 2023-24 stands at 2188.31 budget allotment of 6450 lakhs, in 2021-22 resulting in
lakhs (Table 6.23). an achievement of cultivating an area of 5000 hectares
involving 10,207 farmers. However, in the subsequent
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana fiscal year 2022-23, while the budget allotment
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana was launched in decreased to 3723 lakhs, the physical achievement saw
2015 to enhance access to water for farming, expanding a notable rise to 20,300 hectares, benefiting 22,511
the cultivable area under assured irrigation, improve farmers.
water use efficiency, and promote sustainable water
174
National Food Security Mission (NFSM) has redesigned the programme as RKVY - RAFTAAR
- Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied
The Indian government in 2007 introduced this centrally sector Rejuvenation based on experience and feedback
sponsored programme. By expanding the production from the states. For the fiscal year 2022-23, overall, 3
area and boosting productivity in the designated DPRs were approved amounting to 904.92 lakhs.
districts of the nation, it seeks to raise the production of
rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals and nutri-cereals. In Integrated Birsa Village Development Scheme
addition to transferring technology through training and
A budget of 6100 lakhs was allocated in the fiscal year
demonstrations, it also attempts to increase soil fertility
2021-22, with a specific emphasis on the development
and farm-level productivity while providing incentives
and advancement of 17 Krishak Pathshalas during the
for essential inputs including high-quality seeds, water-
initial phase. In the fiscal year 2022-23, the budget
saving machinery and farm equipment.
has been raised to 9000 lakhs. Additionally, 26
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) Krishak Pathsalas locations have been selected and
suggested, and the process of signing Memorandums of
In order to promote various types of interventions in the Understanding (MOUs) with the relevant implementing
agricultural sector and attain 4 percent annual growth, agencies is currently underway. For the fiscal year
the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana was introduced by a 2023-24, a budget of 5000 lakhs has been allocated, and
central government initiative in 2007. This programme 14 Krishak Pathshalas locations have been selected and
serves as a hub for numerous other programmes. suggested.
According to the district/State agricultural plan, the
States are free to select their own agricultural and
related sector development activities. The government
Table 6.23: Progress under the National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology
FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
National Mission on 4136.09 Training- 316 3856.37 Training- 148 2188.31 Training- 26
Agricultural Extension Demonstration- Demonstration- Demonstration-
and Technology 4096 1760 245
Exposure Visit- Exposure Visit- Exposure Visit-
322 221 5
Group Group Group
Formation- 390 Formation- 145 Formation- 10
Kisan Mela- 13 Kisan Mela- 12 Kisan Mela- 01
Information Information Information
Dissemination- Dissemination- Dissemination-
109 60 16
Farmer- Scientist Farmer- Scientist Farmer-
Interaction- 29 Interaction- 29 Scientist
Kisan Gosthi- Kisan Gosthi- Interaction- 09
342 336 Kisan Gosthi-
Farm School- Farm School- 198
458 327 Farm School-
124
175
Agri Smart Village Scheme Conclusion

The Agri Smart Village Scheme has secured an allotment The overall progress of Jharkhand hinges on the
of Rs 2000 lakhs, signifying substantial financial advancement of agriculture and its affiliated industries.
backing. Concurrently, garnering recommendations Over the past five years, the sector has witnessed
from MPs and MLAs for 91 villages reflects a widespread amplification in crop output, yield, and cultivation
endorsement and engagement at the grassroots level. areas for both the Kharif and Rabi seasons. However,
This synergy between financial allocation and political alterations in production patterns have emerged.
support indicates a promising initiative poised to bolster Notably, cropping intensity surged from 140.8 percent
rural development and agricultural progress. in 2017–18 to 142.4 percent in 2018–19 but then
declined to 135.8 percent in 2020–21.
The Jharkhand Krishi Rin Mafi Yojana
(JKRMY) In Jharkhand, land ownership distribution exhibits
significant skewness, with approximately 70 percent
The Jharkhand Krishi Rin Mafi Yojana (JKRMY)
of holdings classified as marginal, covering a mere
exhibits a substantial financial dedication, with an
754 thousand hectares of the total 3091 thousand
allocation of Rs 200,000 lakhs, intended for waiving
hectares of land (24 percent). The land unavailable for
agricultural loans. The plan effectively eliminated
cultivation, encompassing non-agricultural uses, barren/
loans for 122,238 recipients of regular agricultural
uncultivable land, fallow land, and other uncultivated
loans, amounting to a total of Rs 495.95 crore. The data
land, experienced a slight decrease in 2021-22 compared
highlights the concrete effect of the initiative, offering
to 2019-20. However, the net sown area displayed an
significant assistance to a sizable number of farmers who
upward trajectory, escalating from 1,291,433 hectares
are burdened by agricultural debts. The large number
in 2019-20 to 1,378,568 hectares in 2021-22. The
of beneficiaries and the significant amount of debt
forested area has expanded to encompass 27% of the
forgiven indicate the scheme’s efficacy in mitigating
total land. The census years of 2011-and 2015-16 saw a
financial strain within the agricultural sector.
reduction of 2.36 percent in the ‘overall operated area’
Various other schemes of the state government across all size categories. However, the total number of
operational holdings increased from 2,709,000 units to
The “Establishment of IT and Consultancy at 2,803,000 units, during the same period.
Department” project costs Rs 400 lakhs. This budget is a
big investment in the department’s IT infrastructure and The state is susceptible to climate change, necessitating
consultant services. The large expenditure suggests a the implementation of adaptive measures. Cropping
purposeful focus on improving operations to streamline intensity in Jharkhand fluctuated, reaching its pinnacle
procedures, boost productivity, and provide professional at 171.58% in 2022-23. The irrigated area for food
advisory services. This allocation shows that the crops and non-food crops experienced an increase from
department recognizes the importance of technology 2,37,862 to 2,67,951 hectares and from 20,436 to 22,881
and professional support in current organizational hectares, respectively, between 2020-21 and 2021-22.
functionality and expects a major influence on its
While the gross irrigated area ranged from 247 thousand
“Farmer Flourishing (Prosperity) Scheme” with an
hectares in 2017-18 to 291 thousand in 2021-22, the net
allotment of Rs 4583 Lakhs, “Fasal Suraksha Program”
irrigated area declined from 332 thousand hectares in
with an allotment of Rs 3230 Lakhs, “Jharkhand State
2017-18 to 278 thousand in 2021-22. Wells serve as the
Millet Mission” with an allotment of Rs 5000 Lakhs,
primary source of irrigation, followed by other sources,
“Climate Smart Agriculture Research” and “Agri Stack”
tanks, and canals. In terms of sustainable methods, 62%
with an allotment of Rs 500 Lakhs and “Grant to FPOs”
of cultivation employed sprinkler technology while the
with an allotment of Rs 5000 are in the draft proposal
remaining 38% utilized drip irrigation. Urea remains
stage, while the “Tender for Automatic Rain Guage” is
the most utilized fertilizer, trailed by DAP, NPKS, and
in process with an allotment of Rs 4790.10 Lakhs.
MOP.
Jharkhand witnessed a substantial expansion in

agricultural financing, notably with the implementation
176
of the 2012 Kisan Credit Card (KCC) system. In The government has implemented several pivotal
2022–23, 181,730 new KCC accounts were created, measures to tackle challenges in the agriculture and allied
disbursing Rs. 1,13,279.75 lakhs. The number of sectors, including schemes like Birsa Seed Production,
accounts (1.87%) and the disbursed amount (9.91%) Exchange, Distribution, and Crop Diversification,
increased by September 30, 2022, resulting in a Krishi Mela, Integrated Birsa Village –cum- Krishak
66.48% achievement rate for the combined agriculture Pathshala, Soil Health Management, Loan Waiver for
categories. The agriculture insurance scheme received Farmers, Agri Clinic, and Infrastructure Development.
44.62 lakh farmer applications, covering 19.4 lakh
hectares of insured agricultural land. In Jharkhand’s agricultural development, beyond
technological advances, timely access to cost-effective,
The performance of allied activities is promising. innovative inputs is pivotal. Expanding cultivation
Vegetable yields increased from 293.88 thousand tonnes through vertical and horizontal means, enhancing
in 2018-19 to 305.28 thousand tonnes in 2022-23. Fruit irrigation, and optimizing food crop production via
cultivation expanded from 104.08 to 111.36 thousand improved seed, fertilizer, pesticide, and machinery use
hectares by 2022-23, with fruit yield peaking at 1312.454 hold promise. Horticultural growth not only serves
thousand tonnes in 2021-22 before declining to 1264.57 local needs but also beckons export opportunities.
thousand tonnes. Livestock count stands at over 2.36 Likewise, expanding milk, meat, and egg production
crores, while poultry numbers about 2.48 crores. Over offers potential. Establishing food processing units for
the period from 2016-17 to 2021-22, milk production fruits, vegetables, milk, meat, and forest products is
rose from 18.94 to 26.29 lakhs MT, witnessing a 72% feasible. However, these initiatives necessitate a strong
increase in egg production and a steady growth in meat agricultural marketing system that secures profitable
production from 0.55 to 0.79 lakhs MT. Fish seed returns for farmers.
production saw substantial growth from 41,501 lakh fry
in 2016-17 to 114,950 lakh fry in 2020-21.

177

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Chapter 6

Agriculture and Allied Activities

in hectares. The geographical area of Jharkhand Landholding Pattern in Jharkhand

Table 6.1: Land Utilization Pattern (2019-20 to 2021-22)

Area Under Forest

Culturable Waste Land

Area Sown more than once

Table 6.2: Distribution of Landholding in Jharkhand (2010-11 and 2015-16)

Marginal (<1 Semi-medium

2010-11 India 2010-11 Jharkhand

Marginal (<1 Semi-medium

2015-16 India 2015-16 Jharkhand

crops in 2020-21, with paddy covering 1750.605 Production

Figure 6.4: Year-wise description of the Area under the cultivation of

* 1st Advanced Estimate for 2023-24.

2022-23 348.86 29.55

2021-22 445.36 34.03

2020-21 443.90 36.21

2019-20 419.24 36.45

Millets Pulses Oilseeds

Figure 6.6: Year-Wise Production of Millets, Pulses and Oilseeds

Millets Pulses Oilseeds

Figure 6.7: Year-Wise yield of Paddy and Maize

Figure 6.8: Year-Wise Yield of Millets, Pulses and Oilseeds

Millets Pulses Oilseeds

Wheat Maize Pulses Oilseeds

Figure 6.10: Year-Wise Yield of Rabi Crops

2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23

Box 6.1: El Nino and its Effect on Jharkhand Agriculture

Figure 6.11: Year-wise cropping Intensity in Jharkhand

Gross Cropped Area Net Sown Area

Table 6.5: Crop-Wise irrigated Area (in hectares)

Figure 6.13: Crop-Wise irrigated Area (in hectares)

Total Food Crops (A) Total Non Food Crops (B)

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200

Figure 6.15: Area Covered under Micro Irrigation (as on 31.03.2022)

0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000 35000

usage of e-water, fertiliser, and labour requirements in Net Irrigated Area

300 249 278 300

260 258 150

Gross irrigated Area Net Irrigated Area

Source: RBI Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2022-23 and https://aps.dac.gov.in/LUS/Public/Reports.aspx

97282, 33% 94210, 32%

Canal Tank Well Other Sources

Fertilizers Kharif crops has decreased to 41,712 tonnes in 2022-23

Consumption of compost fertilizer institutional financing for investments in technological

Figure 6.18: Year-Wise Consumption of Compost Fertilizer (in MT) in Jharkhand

Table 6.8: Agricultural Credit - Bank Category-Wise Status of KCC in Jharkhand

Total 15,87,521.00 13,27,417.64 14,89,192.00 8,82,508.62 66.48

Source: 82nd State Level Banking Committee, Jharkhand

Agricultural Insurance there has been a persistent increase in the proportion

Target (amount) Achievement % (Amount)

Source: 82st State Level Banking Committee, Jharkhand

44.62 19.4 10733.48 75.15 1236.76 572.72 98.08

Figure 6.20: Year-Wise Storage Capacity

Figure 6.21: Year-Wise Area and Production of Vegetable

Source: Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand

Figure 6.22: Year-Wise Area and Production of Fruits

Source: Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Co-operative, Government of Jharkhand

Fruits fertilizer. There are more than 2.36 crores of livestock

Table 6.14: Year-Wise Area and Production of different types of fruits

Fruits Total (2022-23) *

Table 6.15: Total Livestock and Poultry