Gujarat's Agricultural Success a Model for Other States, Says PM's Aide

Gujarat's agriculture sector has received high praise from PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at the foundation day of the Agro-Economic Research Centre (AERC) at Sardar Patel University in Anand, Gujarat, Mishra highlighted the state's significant transformation over the past 25 years.

He noted that Gujarat has evolved from a subsistence-based economy to a diversified and market-oriented one, asserting that the state’s agricultural success is a model for other Indian states. Mishra pointed out that Gujarat's agriculture and allied sectors have grown at a compounded annual growth rate of 9.7%, compared to India's average of 5.7%, largely driven by allied sectors.

Mishra commended Gujarat's achievements in empowering farmers through technology, mentioning initiatives like Krishi Mahotsav and soil health cards, which have significantly contributed to agricultural growth. He noted that Gujarat was the first state in India to introduce soil health cards, which have played a crucial role in soil health management.

He also highlighted Gujarat’s progress in BT cotton adoption, which has led to higher yields and reduced pesticide use, especially in arid regions. Mishra praised the state’s advancements in high-yielding varieties and biotechnology, as well as its role in promoting organic farming through events like seed festivals, organic food festivals, and biennial conventions of organic farmers. Recently, the state has also embraced natural farming practices.

Mishra acknowledged Gujarat's successful cooperative models in the dairy sector, which have added value to agri-produce and significantly contributed to the development of the horticulture sector. He also recognized the role of women in agricultural cooperatives and self-help groups, noting their economic and social empowerment.

Emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices for long-term productivity and environmental health, Mishra suggested adopting steps such as soil testing, conservation tillage, and advanced technologies like remote sensing, GPS, drones, and AI to optimize agricultural operations. He advocated for using renewable energy and bioenergy production from agricultural residues and called for climate-smart practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience, along with timely weather advisories for farmers.

Mishra highlighted the need for investment in agricultural research, particularly in developing climate-resilient crops, efficient water use, and innovative fertilizers. He noted that irrigation coverage in Gujarat, once below the national average, has now surpassed it by 14 percentage points.

Regarding market reforms, Mishra mentioned that Gujarat was among the first states to implement the Model Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act, which allows farmers to sell produce outside regulated markets. The law was amended in 2007 to include provisions for contract farming, direct marketing, e-trading, and the establishment of farmer markets.

He also referenced a NABARD report noting that Gujarat has over 30,000 food processing units, which employ more than one million people, contributing to rural employment and poverty reduction.