Economic Survey 2025-2026 Highlights Need for Sustained Investment and Innovation in Agriculture
The Economic Survey 2025-2026 has underscored the critical importance of sustained investment and innovation in India's agriculture sector. Released recently, the survey presents a forward-looking vision that moves beyond traditional metrics of foodgrain production to embrace a more diversified and high-growth agricultural economy.
Shifting Focus to High-Growth Agricultural Areas
According to the survey, the future of Indian agriculture does not lie solely in increasing foodgrain output. Instead, it advocates for a strategic expansion into high-growth segments that offer greater economic resilience and sustainability. The report specifically identifies several key areas for development:
- Horticulture: Including fruits, vegetables, and flowers, which have shown significant market potential and export opportunities.
- Agroforestry: Integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes to enhance biodiversity, soil health, and carbon sequestration.
- Dairy: Building on India's position as a leading milk producer to improve productivity, quality, and value-added products.
- Poultry: Expanding meat and egg production to meet rising domestic demand and explore export markets.
- Fisheries: Leveraging India's vast coastline and inland water resources to boost aquaculture and marine fisheries.
Emphasis on Innovation and Technological Adoption
The survey argues that achieving this transformation requires more than just financial investment. It calls for a concerted push towards innovation, including:
- Adoption of advanced technologies such as precision farming, drone surveillance, and IoT-based monitoring systems.
- Development of climate-resilient crop varieties and sustainable farming practices to mitigate environmental challenges.
- Strengthening of research and development institutions to foster homegrown solutions tailored to Indian conditions.
- Enhancing digital infrastructure to improve market access, supply chain efficiency, and farmer incomes.
By prioritizing these areas, the Economic Survey 2025-2026 aims to position agriculture as a dynamic and profitable sector, capable of driving rural prosperity and contributing significantly to the national economy. The recommendations are expected to influence policy discussions ahead of the Union Budget 2026, highlighting the government's commitment to agricultural modernization.
