In India, agriculture is considered a primary livelihood for most of the population, which can never be underestimated. Agriculture has existed for thousands of years in our country and has developed with new technologies and equipment that replaced traditional farming methods. In India, few farmers still use the traditional farming method because they lack the resources to use modern techniques. Agriculture is the only sector that contributes to itself and other country sectors. India is the second-largest wheat, rice, cotton, fruit, vegetables, and tea producer. It is also a global powerhouse of agricultural production. It is the world’s largest producer of spices, milk, wheat, rice and cotton.
Role of Agricultural in Economic Development
The population of India largely depends on agriculture, and it is not only just a means of livelihood but a way of living. The Government of India is continuously developing the agricultural sector by framing new laws, implementing modern technology, etc. In India, the entire nation depends on agriculture for food. In earlier times, agriculture was mainly dependent on the monsoon, but dams, canals, pump sets, and tube wells are now being constructed.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in the economic development of India as 3/4th of the population is based on agriculture. It is one of the largest sources of livelihood for the country. The country was dependent on agriculture for a thousand years.
The agricultural sector also benefits the industries in getting their raw materials, which clearly states that a large part of the economy will freeze without a flourishing agriculture sector. It leads to the expansion of the industrial sector. Indian agriculture provides employment opportunities to most people, and 70% of the population, especially in rural areas, earn their livelihood from cultivation.
In India, agriculture plays an imperative role in enhancing foreign exchange. To other nations, India exports commodities such as coffee, spices, tea, vegetables, tobacco, etc. Agriculture contributes to Indian exports. With the invention of organic farming, exports have also increased in the last few decades.
Negative Impact of Agriculture for the Environment
Agriculture contributes to numerous environmental issues that cause environmental degradation, including deforestation, dead zones, irrigation problems, soil degradation, pollutants, and waste.
One of the significant negative aspects of agriculture is deforestation. Many forest lands are converted into agricultural land, which leads to cutting down the trees. Extensive water use from small rivers and ponds for irrigation leads to destroying natural habitats as it dries off the ponds and rivers.
Moreover, the chemicals and fertilisers used for agricultural purposes contaminate the land and water bodies, leading to topsoil depletion and groundwater contamination.
Agriculture is one of the primary sectors of contribution towards the Indian economy. Still, its negative impacts are harmful to the environment and the people involved in this sector.
Conclusion
Agriculture is the Indian economy’s most important sector, and India’s farm sector is the largest industry. With constant changes and developments happening and introduced policies, it will only go upwards. It will always remain a significant factor in the nation’s economic growth.
An essay on Agriculture is crucial that can be asked during the exam. Students can also access CBSE Essays from our BYJU’S website.
Frequently asked Questions on agriculture Essay
Where was agriculture originally developed?
Agriculture was developed in the modern day Iraq, Jordan, Palestine, Israel, parts of Turkey and Iran which was also known as the Fertile Crescent.
What are the main types of agriculture?