Source: BS
Context
According to ICAR, agricultural research and technology contributed nearly one-third of the increase in the value of agricultural output (2024–25). Experts argue that future agricultural growth should come from higher productivity, innovation, and diversification, rather than expanding cultivated land.
Key Highlights
- Every ₹1 invested in agricultural research generates an estimated ₹13.85 in returns.
- Every ₹1 invested in agricultural extension generates ₹7.40.
- Agricultural Research & Education Budget (2026–27): ₹9,266 crore (up from ₹4,836 crore in 2014–15).
- 386 improved crop varieties were released in 2025:
- 94% climate-resilient
- 29 biofortified varieties
Key Concerns
- Around 73% of agricultural expenditure is spent on subsidies and welfare schemes, leaving limited resources for research.
- India’s R&D expenditure is only 0.6–0.7% of GDP, lower than many major economies.
- Agriculture faces growing challenges:
- Shrinking landholdings
- Soil degradation and nutrient imbalance
- Groundwater depletion
- Climate change and erratic monsoons
- Increasing pest and disease outbreaks
Why Agricultural R&D is Important
- Develops climate-resilient and high-yielding crop varieties.
- Improves soil health, water-use efficiency, and resource conservation.
- Promotes diversification into horticulture, livestock, and fisheries, which offer higher farmer incomes.
- Strengthens food security, enhances climate resilience, and supports sustainable agricultural growth.
Way Forward
- Increase and ensure stable funding for agricultural research.
- Strengthen agricultural extension services for faster technology adoption.
- Promote collaboration between ICAR, universities, startups, and the private sector.
- Encourage innovation in precision farming, biotechnology, and digital agriculture.
Key Terms
- ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research): Apex body for agricultural research and education in India.
- Agricultural R&D: Research aimed at improving crop productivity, sustainability, and farmers’ income.
- Agricultural Extension: Transfer of scientific knowledge and modern farming practices to farmers.
- Climate-Resilient Varieties: Crop varieties resistant to drought, heat, floods, and pests.
- Biofortified Crops: Crops enriched with essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin A.
- GERD (Gross Expenditure on R&D): Total national expenditure on research as a share of GDP.
- ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation): Established under the ANRF Act, 2023 to strengthen research and innovation across Indian institutions.
