Question

Explain the problem of ‘low productivity’ of Indian agriculture.

Answer 1

Low productivity in Indian agriculture is defined as a low yield per unit of land when compared to global standards. For example, India's average rice output is about 2.4 tonnes per hectare, which is much lower than China’s yield of 4.7 tonnes.

The Problem of ‘Low Productivity’ in Indian Agriculture:

1. Small and Fragmented Landholdings: Over 85% of Indian farmers are tiny or marginal, with less than two hectares of land. This makes it difficult to employ new machinery and obtain economies of scale.
2. Dependence on Monsoon: Nearly 60% of net sown area remains rain-fed, making agriculture a “gamble” against unpredictable rainfall and climate change.
3. Soil Degradation: Intensive monoculture and uneven use of chemical fertilisers have resulted in nutrient depletion, salinity, and soil fertility loss.
4. Technological Gap: High-yielding varieties (HYV) and modern irrigation techniques, such as drip or sprinkler systems, are just gradually being used.
5. Economic Barriers: The lack of easy access to institutional funding frequently locks small farmers in debt cycles, preventing them from investing in quality seeds and tools.