(a) whether despite the speedy growth of India’s farm sector in the recent years, the country has not been able to utilize many scientific achievements in the agriculture sector;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether there is a gap between the yield per hectare in the field and under the ideal farm practices;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the remedial steps taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR AGRICULTURE & FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (DR. SANJEEV KUMAR BALYAN)
(a) & (b): No, Madam. Utilization of scientific achievements in the agriculture sector have led to significant increase in average productivity and total production of major field crops.
(c) & (d): Yes, Madam. Frontline Demonstration (FLDs) conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) show varying levels of yield gaps between the farmers’ practices and ideal farm practices in different crops. About 25-30 per cent gap in major field crops exists between the yield per hectare in field and the ideal farm practices.
(e) Continuous development and demonstration of improved crop technologies, including high yielding varieties and hybrids by ICAR and State Agricultural Universities has helped in reducing the yield gaps in different agro-climatic regions of the country. Besides, the Central Government schemes like National Food Security Mission, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, Bringing Green Revolution in Eastern India, National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology Management and National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture have been launched to bring down the yield gaps.