Question.
Explain the changes in cropping patterns in India in the context of changes in consumption patterns and marketing conditions.
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 3 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
Cropping patterns refer to the types and arrangement of crops cultivated on a piece of land over a specific period. It involves the selection and sequences of crops planted in a particular area.
Cropping patterns are influenced by climate, soil type, water availability, market demand, and government policies.
Some examples of cropping patterns in India are:
- Kharif crops ( Paddy, Millet, cotton, groundnut, etc)
- Rabi Crops ( Wheat, Mustard, grams, pea, etc)
- Zaid Crops ( Watermelon, cucumber, and vegetable)
There have been visible changes in cropping patterns in India over the last four decades. It is influenced by shifts in consumption patterns and marketing conditions.
Farmers adapt their crop choices to meet demand and optimize economic returns as consumer preferences evolve and market dynamics change.
Cropping patterns change due to changing consumption patterns:
The area of millet cultivation has been reduced as people nowadays prefer to eat cereal ( rice/wheat) instead of millet ( Bajara, Jowar, and Ragi)
Growing demand for certain vegetables ( potato, tomato, cauliflower) over traditional vegetables ( bitter melon) leads to higher demand for those vegetables.
Growing demand for organic foods led to increased areas of cultivation of organic crops.
Cropping patterns change due to changing marketing conditions:
Export Opportunities:
After the LPG reform in 1991, export opportunities for agricultural goods increased. With the surge in demand for specific crops in the global market, farmers shift towards cultivating that crop to take advantage of export possibilities.
For example, there is an increase in cotton crop areas as it has high demand in the global market.
Government Policies:
The government incentivizes certain crops through MSP ( minimum support price), which leads to an increase in the growing of certain crops like paddy, wheat, and sugarcane.
Input Costs:
Fluctuations in the prices of agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides impact cropping decisions. The farmer prefers to grow those crops that have lower input costs.
Market Infrastructure:
Improvements in transportation and storage facilities influence cropping patterns by providing better access to markets and reducing post-harvest losses.
Contract farming:
Contract farming between corporations and farmers resulted in crop diversification and the introduction of new crops in India. For example, Potato cropping in Gujarat.
In summary, the interplay of consumer preferences, market conditions, government policies, and technological advancements contributes to the dynamic nature of cropping patterns in India.
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