Sarthak Krishi Yojana, a Framework to Transform Agriculture in India
- India lacks a focused managerial framework to transform agriculture.
- Sarthak Krishi Yojana advocates measures to develop this sector.
Findings of Sarthak Krishi Yojana
- 1999 to 2012: India’s farming sector recorded highest growth, production and farmer income.
- But, this productivity lagged other nations by large margin.
- In last two agricultural seasons, India’s farming has been devastated by inclement weather
- India need an integrated, managerial framework for agriculture
Major recommendations
- Agriculture is a state subject: Developing consensus with states and executing a national agenda should be exercised by the Central government.
- Holistic national framework to address agricultural problems could derive lessons from the way India industrialized.
- Holistic plan should encompass five pillars:
- Technology incubation: Outcome-based technology, policy encouraging research, innovation and incubation.
- Risk institutions and financing: Banks and financial institutions to help promote technology infusion, insurance and mechanization.
- Institutions of governance: Promote farmer producer organizations to be agri SMEs/ MSMEs.
- Policy for farming: Focus on improving human and farm productivity.
- Skilling: Agricultural technical training institutes
Conclusion
- To ensure the success of the Sarthak Krishi Yojana, it should be a collaboratively driven project with states.