Largest state in agriculture: Madhya Pradesh

There has been a remarkable change in agriculture in Madhya Pradesh. From negative growth 15 years ago, the sector has been achieving growth of over 10 percent in the past decade; In some years, it was over 20 percent. The contribution of agriculture to the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the state increased from 33.85 per cent in 2011-12 to 46.98 per cent in 2020-21.

As of 2018, the focus was on improving the production of agricultural commodities. This was accomplished through bonus and MSP purchases. Now efforts are being made to maximize agricultural income by adding it to the value chain. Consultants hired for value chain analysis of seven major crops have suggested various interventions.

Marketing strategy has also changed. Last year, the state introduced procurement at the farm gate level, allowing farmers to sell their produce without visiting the mandis. The entire marketing operation is online; The apps provide real time information on crop prices to the farmers. Subsidy on agricultural equipment has also been amended. Tractors are off the list. “Our study found that around 86,000 tractors are sold every year in MP. Instead of tractors, subsidy is being offered on modern equipment like happy seeders and mulchers,” says Ajit Kesari, additional chief secretary, agriculture, MP.