Topic: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints;
4. Agrarian reforms have been considered as important tools of socio-economic change in India. They constitute an important aspect of transforming and modernising Indian agriculture. Discuss. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Live Mint
Why the question:
Recent interventions by the Indian government distort agricultural markets that are in need of a renewed push for reforms. It’s time to farmers and go for greater market orientation, not less.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the challenges in Indian agriculture and reforms that are needed overcome them.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving a brief about role of agriculture in Indian economy. Cite statistics to substantiate.
Body:
First, write about the challenges which hinder growth and productivity in the agricultural sector – Instability, Cropping Pattern, Land Ownership, Sub-Division and Fragmentation of Holdings, Land Tenure, Conditions of Agricultural Labourers and lack of mechanisation etc. Cite examples and statistics to substantiate.
Next, write about the various short term and long-term measures that are needed to overcome the above challenges.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
