Agricultural Growth in India-Sources of Agricultural Growth, Agricultural Growth in India Since Independence

Meaning

Agricultural Growth refers to a sustained increase in agricultural output and productivity over time, achieved through better use of land, labour, capital and technology.

Indian agriculture growth is largely intensive in nature due to limited land availability.

Agricultural Growth in India since Independence

1. Pre-Green Revolution Period (Before 1965)

2. Green Revolution Period (1965-1980)

3. Post-Green Revolution Period (1980 onwards)

Pre-Green Revolution Period (Before 1965)

1. Traditional farming practices like bullock ploughing.

2. Low productivity

3. High dependence on the monsoon.

4. India had to import food grains.

5. Very little use of fertilisers and modern seeds.

This period was marked by stagnation and instability.

Green Revolution Period (1965-1980)

The Green Revolution was a turning point in India’s agriculture.

Key features:

• HYV (high-yielding variety) seeds.

• Expansion of Irrigation (Tube wells, canals)

• Use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

• Mechanisation (tractors, harvesters)

Impacts:

• Wheat and rice production increased massively.

• India becomes self-sufficient in food grains.

• Rural income has increased in many states.

Post-Green Revolution Period (1980 onwards)

This period focuses on diversification and sustainability.

1. Diversification of Crops

More production of vegetables, fruits, spices, oilseeds, pulses and flowers.

2. Growth of allied sectors

Dairy, poultry, fisheries and aquaculture became major contributors to rural income.

3. Expansion of Irrigation

Drip and sprinkler irrigation increased water-use efficiency.

Sources of Agricultural Growth

1. Irrigation

2. HYV seeds

3. Uses of fertilisers and micronutrients

4. Agricultural Mechanisation

5. Industrial support and government policies

Irrigation

Irrigation reduces dependence on the monsoon and ensure regular water supply for crops. It enables multiple cropping and the use of HYV seeds, thereby increasing agricultural productivity. However, over-extraction of groundwater creates water-stress.

HYV seeds

HYV seeds are genetically improved seeds that give higher output per hectare. They played a major role in increasing food grain production during the Green Revolution. These seeds required assured irrigation, fertilisers, and pest control.

Agricultural Mechanisation

Mechanisation involves the use of tractors, harvesters, pumpsets, and modern tools. It increases efficiency, saves labour, and allows timely agricultural operations. High costs limit its use among small farmers.

Industrial Support and Government Policies

Industrial factors like Minimum Support Price (MSP), agricultural credits, subsidies, and crop insurance encourage farmers to adopt modern methods.