An Analysis of Agriculture Sector of Inclusive Growth in India

Abstract

Agriculture remains the dominant supporter of the Indian populace. The thriving industry and service sectors depend on the agricultural sector for their development. The inter-linkage among the three sectors could not be undermined at any cost. It is the massive absorbent of the labor force even though the disguised unemployment exists in varied magnitude. The share of agriculture to the GDP has come down from 57.7% in 1950-51 to 32.2% in 1990-91 at the time of liberalization, 24.6% in 2000-2001, 15.7% in 2009-2010 then 17%. In the post-independence era, stagnant production, low productivity, traditional technology, and poor rural infrastructure were the major challenges for the Government. India is principally an agricultural country. The agriculture sector estimates 18.0% of the GDP and employs 52% of the total workforce. There is a continuous steady decay in its presence towards the GDP, and the agriculture sector is losing its shine and anchor position in the Indian economy. The problems with which the Indian agricultural scenario is charged in present times are many. Still, this in no way undermines the interest of the sector and the role it can play in the holistic and inclusive growth of the country. Agriculture is fundamental for the sustenance of an economy, as is food for a human being.