India being a vast country with different climates across different regions requires a region-specific farming model. Soil adaptability for cultivation of different seeds in India varies from region to region. Farmers constitute a major portion of country’s income. Considering this, there are tremendous possibilities for enhancement in the agricultural sector. United Nations have published report on region-specific farming for all continents.
With this in mind, our government has set the goals and devised schemes accordingly. For instance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced his aim to double farmer’s income in the following years. On the other hand, finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget mentioned a zero Budget Natural Farming. Furthermore, Narendra Modi advised the cultivators to avoid chemicals.
Analyzing the State of Farmers
India farmers are mostly small, with an average area of 1-hectare land per person. Firstly, the costs of agricultural practices are high, thereby leading to a loss in production and low income. Secondly, India has 15 agro-culture zone, however, the techniques and approach remain nearly the same and most of the Indian agriculture is rain-fed. Hence, it is necessary to change the focus from large scale production to improvement based on the necessities of the field is required. Additionally, there has been a shift from the spotlight on production to farmer’s income.
Need to Devise a Region Specific Approach
The common traditional approach has been a mono culture, that has led to soil exhaustion, pests and diseases hindrance, and frequent crop failure. Henceforth, methods suitable for all diverse lands must be formulated. State Governments of different states need to devise policies suited to their climatic conditions, water availability, soil and technological advancements. Further, this approach would increase stability and sustainability and in turn elevates farmer’s income.
Specific Farmer-Based Models
Initially, the eco-diversity should be well understood as each eco situation differs with respect to crop production and variety. Besides, the goals must be accurate. First, the strategy must strive to increase the yield to increase income. Following this, the cost of production must be reduced to increase saving adding to income. Finally, farmers must get back their remunerative prices. Future of farming in India depends on policies synced with region-specific farming and farmer-based models.
Steps to Develop the Models
The regions must be specified with the best crop planning and production techniques. Further, creating services to aid in time of need is very important. Setting outcome indicators would help farmers know their value thereby they can understand their stand in the market. Additionally, it is important to involve banks to obtain proper funding for the farmers.
Depending on the specificity and implementation of the approach, there could be a significant rise in farmer’s income.