The Economic Survey 2016-17 Volume II released recently has taken into consideration various challenges faced by the Agriculture sector in India. It has suggested multi-dimensional Agricultural and Food Management Reforms Measures.
Challenges
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Small Operational Land Holdings: The average farm size in India is small and declining since 1970-71. It is a major limitation to reap the benefits of economies of scale in agriculture operations.
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Credit: The predominance of informal sources of credit for farmers is a concern. Moreover, there is regional disparity in the distribution of agricultural credit.
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Post- harvest losses: The horticulture sector in India faces problems like post-harvest losses, availability of quality planting material and lack of market access for horticultural produce of small farmers.
Reforms suggested
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Price risks in agriculture and allied sectors: Strengthening and building marketing infrastructure along the entire value chain.
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Production risks: The share of irrigated area should be expanded by increasing the coverage of water saving irrigation systems like micro irrigation systems.
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Increase productivity of crops: Standards should be set and enforced for better quality, pest and disease resistant seeds.
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Trade and domestic policy changes: It should be announced well before sowing and should stay till arrivals and procurement is over.
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Enhance women’s involvement in the dairy projects: Funds should be earmarked through appropriate mechanisms.
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Formal and institutional credit: It should be provided in timely and affordable manner to the small and marginal farmers is the key to inclusive growth. Regime based on timely interventions needs to be adopted.