Agriculture in India – Recent Policies, Innovations, and Challenges

India, an agrarian country where agriculture contributes to a large part of its economy and livelihoods, has witnessed several significant changes and policy initiatives in the agricultural sector in recent years. Measures such as a 6.6% increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for wheat for 2025-26, a ₹11,400 crore plan to boost pulses production, and preparations for a record sugar surplus are significant steps taken by the government to improve farmer welfare and enhance agricultural productivity. Additionally, innovations such as climate-resilient banana clones developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and drone technology are opening up new possibilities in this sector. However, challenges such as weather uncertainty and rising farmer debt remain. In this article, we will discuss in detail the latest developments, government policies, technological innovations, and current challenges in India's agricultural sector.

Government Policies – A New Hope for Farmers

1. Increase in Wheat MSP

The central government has increased the minimum support price for wheat by 6.6% to ₹2,585 per quintal for the 2026-27 Rabi marketing season. This increase is an important step towards ensuring better prices for farmers' produce and strengthening food security. Wheat is one of India's major crops and is cultivated extensively in many states, especially Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This increase in MSP will not only help increase farmers' income but also encourage them to produce more.

However, some experts believe that despite the MSP increase, it may not be sufficient to address costs and inflation. The government needs to formulate long-term policies that not only provide price support but also improve market access and storage facilities.

2. Pulses Mission: A Step Towards Self-Reliance

To reduce dependence on pulse imports and promote indigenous production, the government has approved a six-year Pulses Mission plan worth ₹11,400 crore. Under this mission, the focus will be on expanding cultivation, using high-yielding varieties, and distributing seed kits. Pulses, an integral part of the Indian diet, are a major source of protein. This mission aims not only to ensure food security but also to motivate farmers to shift to profitable crops.

Additionally, the government has approved the procurement of Kharif pulses (urad, mung) and oilseeds (peanuts, soybeans) from states like Gujarat. This move will be particularly beneficial for small and medium farmers, who often face difficulties in selling their produce at a fair price.

3. Sugar Surplus: Opportunities and Challenges

India is expected to have a record sugar surplus in 2025-26. While this is good news for sugarcane farmers, it could lead to a drop in market prices and storage problems. The government will need to strengthen export policies to manage this surplus and ensure timely payments to sugar mills.

Innovations in Agriculture: Technology and Research

1. Climate-Resilient Banana Clones

The National Banana Research Centre of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed new climate-resilient banana clones. These clones are capable of withstanding changing weather and the impacts of climate change. Banana is an important cash crop in India, and these new clones will not only increase productivity but also help farmers cope with the risks of climate change.

2. Increasing Use of Drone Technology

The use of drone technology in agriculture is rapidly increasing. Drones are being used not only for spraying pesticides but also for crop monitoring, soil testing, and yield assessment. This technology is proving to be cost-effective and time-saving for small farmers. The government is also launching subsidies and training programs to promote drone use.

Challenges—Weather and Debt Burden

1. Weather Uncertainty

Irregular monsoons, droughts, and floods due to climate change remain a major challenge for Indian agriculture. Recent reports have revealed adverse weather impacts on crops, affecting yields in many areas. The government needs to invest more in climate-resilient crops and improved irrigation facilities.

2. Increasing Farmer Debt

Farmers' debt burden is increasing, further weakening their economic situation. Small and marginal farmers often have to take loans at high interest rates, and are unable to repay them due to crop failure or low prices. The government has schemes for loan waivers and providing loans at low interest rates, but their effective implementation remains a challenge.

The Way Forward

Strengthening India's agricultural sector requires a coordinated effort between the government, scientists, and farmers. While initiatives like the MSP increase and the Pulses Mission are positive, their effective implementation and transparency are essential. Long-term policies are also needed to address challenges like climate change and debt. Widespread adoption of innovations like drones and climate-resilient crops can improve farmers' productivity and incomes.