Farmer s income is more important than foodgrain production
What should be the immediate and mid-term strategies for achieving food and nutritional security in India?
Some issues need immediate attention: increase in institutional credit and irrigated areas, improvement of marketing infrastructure and revitalisation of the agricultural extension system. There is also need to ensure that agricultural inputs such as seeds and pesticides are of proper quality. Very often crop failures can be ascribed to poor quality seeds or pesticides.
A recent survey has found that 40 per cent of Indian farmers will quit farming given the option. What should be done for them?
The ncf has suggested a livelihood security package for farmers. This, of course, is not a profit-making proposition but at least it will be an attempt to secure farmers' livelihood.
So what's more important for India today: growth of foodgrain production or farmers' income?
The farmer's income is more important than foodgrain production. We have managed considerable sufficiency in the latter. We must remember that agriculture in India is not just a means of food production but livelihood security.
What should be the share of government and private parties in agricultural investment?
The private sector is not going to provide basic infrastructure like rural roads, though some philanthropists might adopt a few villages. The Bharat Nirman project, if implemented properly, can improve rural infrastructure.
The national Rural Health Mission also has a very important role. Let's not forget that health-related expenses constitute more than a third of the debt of farmers who commit suicide. The government should also invest in research and agricultural extension. The private sector's major role should be to ensure assured and remunerative marketing opportunities