The Agriculture department in Kerala is set to launch a pilot project under the New Agriculture Wealth Opportunities
Driving Horticulture Agribusiness Networking (NAWO-DHAN) scheme. This initiative aims to enhance horticultural production by utilising fallow land. The project has garnered interest from 22 landowners and 149 cultivators across 11 districts. The total area involved is approximately 1,600 acres.
Background of NAWO-DHAN
The NAWO-DHAN scheme is designed to address the agricultural production-demand gap in Kerala. Currently, there is a shortfall of 13.76 lakh metric tonnes for vegetables and 14 lakh metric tonnes for fruits. The scheme aims to engage farmer groups through Service Level Agreements. This approach treats farming as a service without transferring land ownership.
Expression of Interest (EoI)
In October, the Agriculture department issued an EoI to attract participants for the NAWO-DHAN scheme. The response has been positive, with 149 cultivators showing interest. The department is now in the process of shortlisting candidates based on technical and financial criteria.
Role of KABCO
The Kerala Agro Business Company (KABCO) is acting as the special purpose vehicle for the NAWO-DHAN initiative. KABCO will facilitate the implementation of the scheme and ensure that the objectives are met effectively.
Utilisation of Fallow Land
Kerala has an estimated 1,03,334 hectares of fallow land. NAWO-DHAN aims to convert this unused land into productive agricultural space. This is crucial as only 15% of the total cropped area is currently dedicated to food crops, with perennial crops dominating.
Economic Implications
The state government marks that income from agriculture is not taxable. This aspect makes the NAWO-DHAN proposal attractive for investment by individuals and multinational companies. The initiative is expected to boost the local economy by increasing food production and creating job opportunities.
Future Prospects
If successful, the NAWO-DHAN scheme could impact Kerala’s agricultural landscape. It may lead to increased food security and reduced reliance on external sources for vegetables and fruits.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically examine the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing agricultural productivity in India.
- Discuss in the light of current trends how technology can transform traditional farming practices in India.
- Explain the significance of fallow land utilisation in achieving food security in Kerala.
- With suitable examples, discuss the impact of agribusiness schemes on rural employment and income generation in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically examine the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing agricultural productivity in India.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) in agriculture can enhance productivity by combining public resources with private innovation and efficiency. They facilitate technology transfer, access to markets, and investment in infrastructure. For instance, initiatives like the NAWO-DHAN scheme leverage private expertise in horticulture, which can lead to increased crop yields and better resource management. However, challenges such as ensuring equitable benefit-sharing and maintaining food sovereignty must be addressed. Overall, PPPs can drive agricultural growth if aligned with public interests and sustainable practices.
2. Discuss in the light of current trends how technology can transform traditional farming practices in India.
Technology is revolutionizing traditional farming in India through precision agriculture, data analytics, and automation. Tools like drones for monitoring crop health, soil sensors for optimized irrigation, and mobile apps for market access are enhancing productivity and efficiency. The integration of technology reduces labor costs, minimizes resource wastage, and improves yield quality. Furthermore, digital platforms enable farmers to make informed decisions based on real-time data. As seen in initiatives like NAWO-DHAN, technology adoption can lead to sustainable practices and increased agricultural output, addressing food security challenges.
3. Explain the significance of fallow land utilisation in achieving food security in Kerala.
Utilising fallow land is crucial for enhancing food security in Kerala, where an important portion of agricultural land remains unused. The NAWO-DHAN scheme aims to convert approximately 1,03,334 hectares of fallow land into productive agricultural space, addressing the existing production-demand gap for vegetables and fruits. By increasing the area under cultivation, Kerala can boost local food production, reduce dependency on imports, and stabilize prices. Effective utilization of fallow land also promotes sustainable farming practices and helps maintain ecological balance, contributing to long-term food security in the region.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of agribusiness schemes on rural employment and income generation in India.
Agribusiness schemes impact rural employment and income generation by creating new job opportunities and enhancing livelihoods. For example, the NAWO-DHAN initiative encourages collective farming, providing jobs for cultivators and landowners while increasing agricultural output. Similarly, schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the National Agricultural Market (eNAM) have improved farmers’ income through better risk management and market access. By encouraging entrepreneurship in agribusiness, these initiatives empower rural communities, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable economic growth in the agricultural sector.
