India’s cropping patterns have shifted significantly due to changing consumption trends and evolving market dynamics. The growing demand for high-value crops and better marketing infrastructure has influenced these changes.

Q.13 Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in consumption pattern and marketing conditions.

Model Answer:

Introduction

India's cropping pattern has evolved significantly over the decades, influenced by various factors such as government policies, technological advancements, market demand, and climatic conditions.

Body

Green Revolution (1960s-1980s)

• Introduction of High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): The Green Revolution introduced HYVs of wheat and rice, leading to a significant increase in their cultivation.
• Shift from Coarse Cereals to Wheat and Rice: Traditional crops like millets and pulses saw a decline in favour of wheat and rice due to higher yields and government support.

Post-Green Revolution (1980s-2000s)

• Diversification: Farmers began diversifying into cash crops like cotton, sugarcane, and oilseeds due to better market prices and export opportunities.
• Horticulture Boom: There was a notable increase in the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, driven by rising domestic demand and export potential.

Recent Trends (2000s-Present)

• Organic Farming: Growing awareness about health and environmental sustainability has led to an increase in organic farming.
• Technological Integration: Use of precision farming, drip irrigation, and genetically modified crops has influenced cropping patterns.
• Government Initiatives: Schemes like PM-KISAN, Soil Health Card Scheme, and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana have impacted cropping choices.

Changes in Consumption Pattern

Historical Context

Consumption patterns in India have undergone significant changes due to economic growth, urbanisation, and changing lifestyles.

Rural vs. Urban Consumption

• Rural Areas: Traditionally, rural consumption was dominated by cereals, pulses, and locally available vegetables.
• Urban Areas: Urban consumption has been more diverse, with a higher intake of processed foods, dairy products, and meat.

Recent Trends

• Increase in Protein Intake: There has been a shift towards higher consumption of protein-rich foods like eggs, meat, and dairy products.
• Rise of Processed Foods: With urbanisation and busy lifestyles, there is an increasing preference for ready-to-eat and processed foods.
• Health Consciousness: Growing awareness about health and nutrition has led to a rise in the consumption of organic and health foods.

Data from NSSO Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022-23)

• Rural MPCE: Rs. 3,773 (40.42% increase from 2011-12)
• Urban MPCE: Rs. 6,459 (33.5% increase from 2011-12)

Marketing Conditions

Traditional Marketing Systems

• Mandis (Agricultural Markets): Farmers traditionally sold their produce in local mandis regulated by Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs).
• Middlemen: The presence of multiple intermediaries often led to lower prices for farmers and higher prices for consumers.

Recent Developments

• E-NAM (National Agriculture Market): Launched in 2016, e-NAM aims to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities by integrating APMC mandis.
• Direct Marketing: Farmers are increasingly selling directly to consumers through farmers' markets, cooperatives, and online platforms.
• Contract Farming: Agreements between farmers and companies ensure a guaranteed market and price for the produce.

Government Initiatives

• PM-KISAN Scheme: Provides direct income support to farmers, improving their purchasing power and market participation.
• Grain Storage Plan: The Union Cabinet's plan to improve grain storage facilities aims to reduce crop wastage and ensure fair prices for farmers.

Conclusion

The changes in cropping patterns, consumption patterns, and marketing conditions in India reflect the dynamic nature of the agricultural sector. These changes are driven by a combination of policy interventions, technological advancements, market demands, and socio-economic factors. Understanding these trends is crucial for formulating effective agricultural policies and ensuring food security in the country.

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