By: P K Joshi and A Kumar

Post independence, the agriculture sector has experienced growth, though not as rapid as the non-agricultural sectors. A large number of public sector interventions are operational to help small farmers respond better to the competitive market scenario.

By: Farah Deeba

Progress in biotechnology has brought in genetically modified (GM) crops that are expected to change the agricultural contours. However, unlike the developed world, there are latent as well as vocal apprehensions in the developing world regarding the use of GM seeds. Further, legal issues of patenting in different countries are also a serious concern.

By: N Lalitha

In India, the efficacy of biotechnology and genetic modification appears to have taken a hit with the latest trend anticipating a decline in the yields of Bt cotton and a hostile climate pervading for all genetically modified crops. Continued research, however, is non-negotiable if science based advancements are to take root.

By: N Nagraj

Over dependence on groundwater poses a tough challenge to the agriculture sector, especially in water scarce regions and during dry spells. Measures such as precision farming, incentivising farmers for rational use of groundwater and imparting knowledge about recharge methods may be possible solutions.

By: A Narayanamoorthy

The method of drip irrigation has several advantages over the flow method. Despite this, only 14.5 per cent of its potential is being utilised in Indian agriculture. Concerted efforts to encourage more states to engage in drip irrigation can help combat increasing water scarcity in agriculture dependent regions of the country.

By: CSC Sekhar

Several commissions have been set up from time to time to address the issue of foodgrain pricing. However, the PM-ASHAA scheme launched in the 2017-18 Union Budget is expected to revisit the challenges of minimum support prices.

By: Staff Reporter

By: M S Swaminathan

Green Revolution should not become Greed Revolution

We have been arguing about the efficacy of genetically modified (GM) crops for a considerable time now. In the backdrop of agrarian crisis that India is facing, GM crops seem a seductive pathway to prosperity. While there are scientists and authors—diehard believers that GM crops can provide the w

After independence Indian agriculture emerged from the shadows of British colonial policies striving to ward off six critical inherited issues— extreme food insecurity; primeval agricultural technology; low level of irrigation; meagre spread of agricultural knowledge institutions and highly distre