(a) whether the Government are aware that the rate of Agricultural Development is
slow in comparison to the rising population; and
(b) if so, the steps taken by the Government to check the threat?
(a) whether the Government are aware that the rate of Agricultural Development is
slow in comparison to the rising population; and
(b) if so, the steps taken by the Government to check the threat?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTUR (SHRI SHRIPAD Y. NAIK)
(a) According to Technical Group on Population Projection constituted by the
Planning Commission, the annual compound growth rate of population during 1996 to
1999 is estimated at 1.65% per annum. The compound growth rate of GDP (Gross
Domestic Product) at 1993-94 prices during 1996-97 to 1999-2000 for agriculture and
allied sector, according to advance estimates prepared by Central Statistical
Organisation for the year 1999-2000, is estimated at 2.10% per annum.
(b) To increase the production and productivity of various crops and thus growth
rate, various steps have been taken by the Government. These include, inter-alia,
implementation of centrally sponsored Integrated Cereal Development Programmes in
Rice/Wheat/Coarse Cereals Based Cropping System area, National Pulses
Development Project, Oilseeds Production Programme and Seed Minikit Scheme.
Under these programmes/project, incentives are provided to farmers for use of high
yielding varieties of seeds, application of integrated pest management, propagation of
scientific water management including micro irrigation and improved farm implements.
In addition, field demonstration on farmers’ holding including training of farmers and
farm labourers are organised for effective transfer of technology.