Economic Survey Highlights Agricultural Growth

Economic Survey Summary (2025-26)

Agricultural Growth:

• Average annual growth rate (AAGR) in agriculture and allied sectors: 4.4% (last five years at constant prices).
• Q2 2025-26 growth: 3.5% (1 percentage point below the average).
• Decadal growth (2015-16 to 2024-25): 4.45%, the highest compared to previous decades.
  • Livestock: 7.1% growth
  • Fishing and aquaculture: 8.8% growth
  • Crop sector: 3.5% growth

Foodgrains Production:

• Estimated foodgrains production for AY 2024-25: 3,577.3 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), an increase of 254.3 LMT from the previous year.
  • Contributory crops: Rice, wheat, maize, and coarse cereals.

Global Comparison:

• India’s AAGR in agriculture exceeds the global average of 2.9%.

Challenges & Recommendations:

• Crop yields (cereals, maize, soybeans, pulses) are below global averages, indicating potential for productivity enhancement.
• Suggestions for improvement include:
  • Greater integration of newer seed varieties.
  • Adoption of quality seeds via field demonstrations.
  • Strengthening extension services.
  • Involvement of Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs), Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (PACS), and Self Help Groups (SHGs).

Role of Cooperatives and FPOs:

• Strengthening cooperatives and FPOs:
  • Enhance access to credit.
  • Facilitate innovative technology.
  • Improve value chains and empower small/marginal farmers.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices:

• Promotion of climate-resilient practices such as:
  • Drip irrigation and sprinkler systems.
  • Diversifying crops to include high-yield, drought-resistant varieties.

This summary encapsulates key data, growth metrics, and strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing the productivity and sustainability of India’s agricultural sector in line with the Economic Survey of 2025-26.