India Faces Decline in Cultivable Land Despite Growth in Gross Crop Area

The recent report by Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Ramnath Thakur, highlights a concerning trend in Indian agriculture: the total cultivable land has decreased from 179.98 million hectares in 2022-23 to 179.43 million hectares in 2024-25. Despite this decline in cultivable land, the gross cropped area has seen significant growth, increasing from 198.28 million hectares in 2014-15 to an estimated 225.19 million hectares in 2024-25. This discrepancy suggests a rise in cropping intensity, which has improved from 142.2% to 159.7% over the same period, signifying that farmers are adopting multiple cropping practices. The foodgrain production is projected to escalate from 252.02 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 376.56 million tonnes in 2025-26, while horticulture production is also expected to rise significantly.

For the average citizen and market stakeholders, these developments indicate both a challenge and an opportunity. The reduction in cultivable land could lead to concerns over the sustainability of agricultural practices and food security. However, the growth in gross cropped area and productivity suggests enhanced farmer efficiency and potential surplus that could benefit consumers through better food availability and competitive pricing. The establishment of new HSN codes for makhana and the promotion of innovative farming techniques signal a positive direction for agricultural diversification, which may create new markets and increase income for farmers, particularly in regions excelling in specific crops like Bihar.

Looking ahead, the government and the RBI will likely need to address land management policies to combat the decline in cultivable land while supporting agricultural innovation and technology adoption. Future initiatives may include funding for sustainable practices, investment in irrigation and infrastructure, and support for farmers transitioning to diversified cropping systems. The introduction of high-yielding varieties and advanced farming techniques, such as the makhana-cum-fish farming system, will be crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity and boosting the income of farmers, which is vital for rural economic stability.

Source: The Hindu

(Expert Note: This report was independently prepared by the Wealthova Economy team.)