Optimising Agricultural Prosperity: Embracing The Theory Of Change Framework
Agriculture, the backbone of our nation, has witnessed significant transformations and growth due to a comprehensive strategic framework involving substantial budget allocations, policy measures, and welfare schemes initiated by the Government of India. This comprehensive overview sheds light on the myriad initiatives undertaken to bolster the agricultural sector and uplift the livelihoods of our farmers.
Over the years, the Government of India's commitment to agricultural development has been evident through the substantial increase in budget allocations. In the financial year 2013–14, the budget allocation of the Ministry of Cooperation, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and the Department of Fisheries, which were integral parts of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, was only INR 30,223.88 crore. The budget of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is INR 1,25,035.79 crore in 2023–24, reflecting the prioritisation of agricultural growth.
The Government of India has implemented a myriad of schemes and programmes to enhance farmers' well-being, increase production, and provide income support. Some of the key highlights of the initiative include a range of welfare schemes aimed at enhancing farmer income, ensuring crop protection, and providing financial support, including:
Notable schemes and initiatives such as e-NAM (National Agriculture Market), Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), and the National Mission on Edible Oil (NMEO)-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), among others, have been instrumental in supporting farmers across the country, which also aim to strengthen post-harvest management and contribute to the creation of a robust agricultural infrastructure. Furthermore, the government's support for start-ups in the agriculture sector, along with efforts to boost agricultural exports, underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and expanding the reach of Indian agricultural products globally. The agri- and allied exports have increased to 50.24 billion USD in 2021–22. Additionally, the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) has implemented schemes that have yielded remarkable results in augmenting the income of farmers. Institutional credit for the agriculture sector will increase to Rs. 21.55 lakh crore in 2023–24. With increased budgetary provisions, strategic policies, and targeted welfare schemes, India's agricultural landscape is poised for sustained growth, empowering farmers, and fortifying the foundation of the nation's agrarian sector.
The success of India's agricultural policies relies on the conscientious application of the Theory of Change framework, combined with rigorous monitoring and evaluation practices. This approach not only validates the effectiveness of policies but also charts a course for adaptive planning, result-oriented implementation, and the optimal utilisation of resources. It is important to establish a robust framework to evaluate impacts, outputs, and outcomes because they are imperative for ensuring that all available resources significantly contribute to the ongoing transformation of the agricultural landscape. Executing well-thought-out strategic and feasible plans maximises efficiency, minimises wastage, and amplifies the overall impact of interventions, a crucial optimisation in an environment where each input profoundly influences the sustainable development of agriculture. It is significant to understand that to achieve transformative outcomes, a thorough assessment of agricultural policies is essential. By examining the social and economic impacts, policymakers can identify gaps and design interventions that address the needs of marginalised and vulnerable communities, fostering inclusivity and sustainable development. This iterative process allows for continuous improvement, ensuring that policies remain resilient in the face of evolving challenges.
While the government's multifaceted approach to agricultural development reflects its commitment to the welfare of farmers and the growth of the sector, we should not forget that agriculture is inherently susceptible to external factors such as climate change, market fluctuations, and technological advancements. A robust monitoring and evaluation system enables policymakers to assess the adaptability of existing policies to these externalities. The dynamism of agriculture demands a result-oriented approach that goes beyond theoretical constructs.
Sharmistha Ghosh, Senior Vice President, Healthcare and Social Impact, Avian WE
Sumit Kaushik, a PhD candidate at O.P. Jindal Global University and a social impact consultant
