Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in India

Agriculture remains the backbone of India’s economy; it employs nearly half the population and contributes around fifteen percent of the national GDP. Over the years, the government has introduced several schemes to modernise farming, increase productivity, and secure farmers’ income. Programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), Soil Health Card Scheme, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) have provided financial and technical support to millions of rural households. However, agriculture today faces both old and new challenges. Climate change, irregular rainfall, and shrinking landholdings have made farming unpredictable. Rising input costs—seeds, fertilisers, fuel—often exceed the profits farmers earn. Despite technological advancement, many small farmers still depend on traditional methods, lacking access to irrigation, machinery, and market information. Experts note that the problem is not the lack of policy but the gap between planning and local implementation. To address these issues, the government has begun promoting digital agriculture—using satellite data, mobile apps, and AI-based tools to guide farmers. Platforms such as e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) allow farmers to sell produce online, avoiding middlemen and securing fair prices. Meanwhile, organic farming and sustainable practices are being encouraged to reduce environmental damage and improve soil fertility. Women, who form nearly a third of the agricultural workforce, are also receiving attention through training programmes and self-help groups. Rural cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have emerged as strong links between farmers and the market. Together, they help ensure fair returns and collective bargaining power. In conclusion, India’s agricultural future depends on innovation, inclusion, and integration. If modern technology meets traditional wisdom, and if farmers receive steady income and respect, agriculture will remain not only a livelihood but a source of pride for generations to come.