Farming in India - statistics & facts
India’s large and dynamic geographical area makes its agricultural sector vastly diverse. From cereals and pulses to spices, fruits, and vegetables, the country is, on average, one of the most productive agrarian economies in the world. Add dairy and meat from livestock to this mix, and it makes up about 17 percent of the GDP. Farming is an essential part of Indian livelihood, with these crops cultivated in varying degrees and with different methods across the country.
Agriculture and livestock have always played complementary roles in the country’s mixed farming economy. It is well known that the livestock sector contributes significantly to food security and poverty eradication. In addition, India has the highest number of cows in the world and, hence, is one of the leading producers of milk globally. Despite maintaining its leading position in milk production, India also caters to consumers who are increasing their intake of meat due to shifting economic and societal trends. Furthermore, about nine million metric tons of meat were produced in the country, with poultry and buffalo meat contributing to the majority of meat production.
Foods grown organically are free of harmful chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides and rich in antioxidants and minerals. In addition to tasting better, organic food also contributes to a healthy environment and maintaining the ecological balance. The demand for organic food is increasing and the segment is expanding quickly, ensuring significant profitability in the future. Therefore, the organic food market size is likely to reach 64 billion Indian rupees in 2025.
Livestock sector
The country has a long history of being renowned as a place where curd and milk flow freely. It comes as no surprise that India has one of the largest livestock sectors in the world. Not only do the rural community rely on livestock for livelihoods but also for employment in the sector. Moreover, the livestock sector contributes about 30 percent to the total agricultural GVA.Agriculture and livestock have always played complementary roles in the country’s mixed farming economy. It is well known that the livestock sector contributes significantly to food security and poverty eradication. In addition, India has the highest number of cows in the world and, hence, is one of the leading producers of milk globally. Despite maintaining its leading position in milk production, India also caters to consumers who are increasing their intake of meat due to shifting economic and societal trends. Furthermore, about nine million metric tons of meat were produced in the country, with poultry and buffalo meat contributing to the majority of meat production.
Organic farming
Organic farming is a type of farming that involves the use of plant or animal waste as an organic means of pest control. Organic farming is not only resource-efficient but also environment-friendly. Among the 187 nations that practice organic agriculture, India holds a special place. Furthermore, with 9.12 million acres of organic farmlands, India is home to 30 percent of the world's organic producers.Foods grown organically are free of harmful chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides and rich in antioxidants and minerals. In addition to tasting better, organic food also contributes to a healthy environment and maintaining the ecological balance. The demand for organic food is increasing and the segment is expanding quickly, ensuring significant profitability in the future. Therefore, the organic food market size is likely to reach 64 billion Indian rupees in 2025.
