A Proposed Model for Agricultural Marketing in Odisha, India

Abstract

Indian agriculture is known for its historic capacity and reliance on agricultural produce. Though, this sector has seen downs in the 1960s and then for a few years in the 1980s; at present it is one of the growing sectors in India. Thanks to the initiatives taken by the Central and the State Governments from time to time to motivate the farmers through various activities and policies. A few such initiatives are The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (Corp insurance) in June 2016, Approval of Blue Revolution, and Government Investment to improve milk productivity (Rupees 221 Crores), Energy Efficient Irrigation Systems, Launch of Parikrama Krishi Vikas Yojna (to address critical importance of soil and water for improving agricultural production) at central level and the Kalia Yojna, Waiver of interest on crop loans, Minimum Support Price (MSP) at the state level. Despite such initiatives, Indian agriculture that contributed to 51% to the GDP in the 1950s presently stands at an all time low at 14% in the year 2018. The problem relating to the agricultural sector is not productivity, but it is the lack of interest and motivation on the part of farmers to cultivate due to insufficient and scarce incomes generated by cultivation. This article suggests a model that could be used by the Government in the state of Odisha to motivate farmers produce more and at the same time help revenue generation and employment in the agricultural sector as well.