Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment
Q5. What are the major barriers preventing rural youth from taking up agriculture? Assess the consequences of this for global food systems. Suggest policy measures to make agriculture more attractive and viable for youth. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question:
FAO’s July 2025 report highlighting youth disengagement from agrifood systems and its implications for food security, labour shortage, and rural development.Key demand of the question:
The question asks to identify the main barriers rural youth face in agriculture, assess how this affects global food systems, and suggest policy measures to make agriculture more appealing and viable for the youth.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction:
Briefly highlight the paradox of rising youth unemployment alongside declining youth participation in agriculture, referencing current global trends.Body:
- Mention key economic, social, and institutional barriers preventing rural youth from entering agriculture.
- Assess the impacts of youth disengagement on labour supply, productivity, food security, and rural inequality.
- Suggest policy measures such as land reforms, agritech incentives, skill-building, credit access, and campaigns for social rebranding of agriculture.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stressing the urgency of making agriculture a sector of aspiration and resilience for youth to secure global food futures.
