India’s agriculture sector is undergoing a transformative shift. In a recent written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Shri Ramnath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, outlined the government’s integrated strategy under the new National Agriculture Policy aimed at revitalizing the sector and ensuring sustainable, inclusive growth for the years ahead.
Key Objectives of the New National Agriculture Policy 2025
The policy focuses on a six-pronged integrated approach to comprehensively develop the agriculture sector:
- Increasing Crop Production & Productivity
Innovative practices, improved seed varieties, and modern technology aim to boost farm yield and ensure food security. - Reducing Cost of Production
Support for mechanization, efficient water and fertilizer use, and better credit access will help farmers minimize input costs. - Ensuring Remunerative Prices for Farmers’ Produce
Through Minimum Support Prices (MSP), market reforms, and digital platforms like e-NAM, the government is working to enhance farmers’ incomes. - Promoting Agricultural Diversification
From traditional cereals to high-value crops, horticulture, and allied sectors like dairy and fisheries, diversification is critical to risk mitigation and income enhancement. - Developing Post-Harvest Infrastructure
Investment in cold chains, warehousing, food processing, and logistics will reduce post-harvest losses and add value to farm produce. - Climate Change Adaptation for Sustainable Agriculture
With extreme weather events becoming frequent, the focus is on climate-resilient crops, soil health management, and sustainable farming methods to mitigate crop losses.
Agricultural Growth Rate 2024-25
As per the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, the Gross Value Added (GVA) growth rate in the Agriculture & Allied Sector for 2024–25 over 2023–24 is estimated at 4.6%, showcasing a steady recovery and momentum in agricultural performance.
🇮🇳 Agriculture: A State Subject with National Vision
Agriculture remains a state subject, and India’s diverse agro-climatic zones, farming systems, and regional challenges demand localised solutions. However, the Government of India plays a pivotal role through central schemes that align with the overarching goals of the National Agriculture Policy.
Some of the major flagship schemes supporting this vision include:
- PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi)
- PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana)
- RKVY (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana)
- MIDH (Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture)
Strategic Importance of Agricultural Self-Sufficiency
India’s vast domestic market makes agricultural self-reliance not just an economic necessity, but a strategic and geopolitical imperative. The policy framework addresses:
- Climate change resilience
- Agri-export enhancement
- Managing global price volatility
- Improving competitiveness in agri-trade
- Doubling farmers’ income sustainably
The New National Agriculture Policy 2025 reflects a futuristic, inclusive, and practical vision for Indian agriculture. It prioritizes productivity, profitability, and sustainability, while recognizing India’s vast diversity and challenges. As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, policy alignment, innovation, and collaborative governance between the Centre and States will be key to long-term success.