Authors: Dr. K. Sankaranarayanan
Abstract: Indian agriculture is undergoing a significant transformation driven by technological advancement, environmental challenges and the growing need to enhance agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods. Although the relative contribution of agriculture to national Gross Value Added (GVA) has declined with structural transformation, the sector continues to be crucial for employment, rural livelihoods and food security. This study examines the role of agricultural technology in promoting sustainable agricultural development in India using secondary data. The study analyses selected indicators relating to the contribution of agriculture to GVA, agricultural employment, technological adoption, government initiatives and emerging Agri-Tech innovations. Secondary information is collected from government publications, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), Economic Surveys, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, World Bank reports, FAO publications and other relevant institutional sources. The study finds that technologies such as precision farming, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), satellite-based monitoring, efficient irrigation, hydroponics, vertical farming, renewable energy and automation can improve resource efficiency and contribute to sustainable agricultural development. However, technology adoption remains constrained by limited awareness, inadequate finance, fragmented landholdings, weak infrastructure, insufficient technical support and limited access to markets. The study concludes that technological innovation should be integrated with sustainable farming practices, institutional support, farmer education, affordable finance and appropriate public policies. Such an integrated approach can contribute to higher productivity, improved farm incomes, climate resilience, food security and environmental sustainability.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22303474
