What is the growth of agriculture and allied sector in the year 2021-22?
- AOption (a)
2.5%
- BOption (b)
3.9%
- COption (c)
4.5%
- DOption (d)
5%
View answer & explanationHide answer & explanation
Correct answer
3.9%
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is 3.9%.
Key Points
- In the financial year 2021-22, the agriculture and allied sector of India witnessed a growth rate of 3.9%.
- This growth was primarily driven by the consistent performance of crop production, improvements in horticulture, and the government's focus on agricultural policies.
- The agriculture and allied sector includes crop production, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, which collectively contribute significantly to India's GDP and rural employment.
- The sector has shown resilience despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring food security and steady economic activity in rural areas.
- Government schemes like PM-Kisan, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, and Agricultural Infrastructure Fund played a pivotal role in supporting farmers and improving overall sector performance.
Additional Information
- Contribution of Agriculture to GDP:
- The agriculture sector contributes approximately 18-20% to India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
- It employs nearly 58% of India's workforce, making it a critical sector for the country's economy.
- Key Government Initiatives:
- PM-Kisan: Provides income support of Rs. 6,000 per year to small and marginal farmers.
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Ensures crop insurance coverage for farmers against natural calamities.
- Agricultural Infrastructure Fund: Supports the creation of farm-gate infrastructure like cold storage, warehouses, etc.
- Resilience during the Pandemic:
- The agriculture sector showed remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring uninterrupted food supply chains.
- It was one of the few sectors to register positive growth during the pandemic years.
- Breakdown of Allied Sectors:
- Crop Production: Includes staple crops like wheat, rice, and pulses.
- Livestock: Accounts for meat, dairy, and poultry production.
- Forestry: Contributes to timber and non-timber products like rubber and medicinal plants.
- Fisheries: Ensures a significant share of protein intake for many Indians and is a key export sector.
Important Points
- 2021-22 Growth Rate Context: The 3.9% growth in 2021-22 is considered significant as it reflects the sector's recovery and expansion despite global and domestic challenges.
- Foodgrain Production: India achieved a record foodgrain production of 314.51 million tonnes in the year, boosting rural incomes and food security.
- Horticulture: The horticulture sector also recorded growth, with an estimated production of 331.05 million tonnes in 2021-22.
- Global Comparison: India remains one of the leading producers of milk, spices, pulses, rice, wheat, and other agricultural products globally.