(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture Development

(July-2023)

Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture Development

Introduction:

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, employing more than half of the country's population. On the other hand, traditional agricultural practices in India are frequently unsustainable and can negatively affect the environment and human health. Sustainable agricultural practices are required to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture in India.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Growth Rate in India

Per capita GDP measures the average economic output per person in a given country or region. The agriculture sector's contribution to per capita GDP in India has declined over the years as the country has diversified its economy and developed other sectors such as services and manufacturing. The Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) estimates that the GVA of agriculture and related sectors was 20.2% in 2020-21, 19.8% in 2021-22, and again decreased to 18.3% in 2022-23.
Adopting sustainable agriculture practices in India is critical for the long-term sustainability of the agriculture sector. The Indian Government and various organisations have launched several initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture practices. For example, the government launched the National Food Security Mission, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and the Soil Health Card Scheme to improve agricultural practices and financially assist farmers.

Following technology can help in sustainable farming:

Precision Farming: It involves sensors, GPS mapping, and data analytics to monitor and optimise crop performance. By using precision farming techniques, farmers can reduce the use of fertilisers and pesticides, improve water management, and increase yields. Precision farming is a relatively new concept in India, and its adoption varies by state depending on various factors such as the availability of technology, agricultural practices, and Government policies.
Agroforestry: Agroforestry is a land-use integrated management system that combines trees and shrubs with crops and livestock to create a more sustainable and productive farming system. This approach can provide various benefits, including soil conservation, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration.
Vertical Farming: It cultivates crops in stacked layers, usually under controlled conditions'. Vertical farming can potentially increase local food production while reducing water consumption and optimising resource utilisation, making it an appealing option for Indian urban agriculture. This method can reduce the need for pesticides and herbicides while increasing crop yields and lowering transportation costs.
Hydroponics: Hydroponics is gaining traction in various Indian states as a sustainable farming method that allows for efficient water and nutrient use, year-round cultivation, and reduced dependence on traditional agricultural practices. Hydroponics involves growing plants in nutrient rich water without soil. This approach can reduce
water use, increase yields, and allow for year-round crop production. It can potentially revolutionise how we grow food in India, especially in urban areas with limited space and resources.
Renewable Energy-based: Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, can be used to power farming operations. This approach can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
Robotics and Automation-based: Robotics and automation technologies can help reduce labour costs, improve crop yields, and reduce the use of fertilisers and pesticides.

Gaps Identified in Adopting Sustainable Agriculture Development:

Lack of Awareness and Knowledge: Many farmers do not know the benefits of sustainable agriculture or implement it effectively.
Limited Access to Finance: Sustainable agriculture requires significant investments in infrastructure and technology. This is difficult for tiny and marginal farmers.
Inadequate Policy and Regulatory Framework: Lack of support through policy and the regulatory framework.
Limited Research and Development: There is a need for more research and development in sustainable agriculture practices that are appropriate for the Indian context.
Lack of Infrastructure and Technical Support: Inadequate infrastructure, such as rural roads, storage facilities, and cold chains, is a significant challenge for the agriculture sector in India.
Low Productivity: Agriculture in India is characterized by low productivity.
Fragmented Landholdings: With the average landholding size being small, it becomes difficult to adopt modern farming techniques.
Lack of Market Access: The lack of access to markets is a significant challenge for farmers in India.
Climate Change: Climate change poses significant challenges in terms of water availability, pest and disease management, and crop yields.

Conclusion:

Farmers benefit from sustainable agriculture by preserving the environment, ensuring food security, and improving their livelihoods. Sustainable agriculture practices have the potential to boost agricultural productivity, reduce production costs, and enhance the quality of crops. It may also promote the production of healthier and safer foods, which is beneficial to public health.