The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) has released a landmark report titled “India’s Agricultural Transformation: From Food Scarcity to Surplus,” offering a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s journey toward becoming a global agrarian powerhouse. The report highlights how India has successfully pivoted from the “ship-to-mouth” dependency of the mid-20th century to a resilient, export-oriented economy, maintaining a robust average growth rate of 3.9% over the last decade.
Overcoming Historical Challenges of Food Scarcity
Decades ago, the primary concern of the Indian economy was managing chronic food scarcity. However, through consistent policy interventions and the spirit of the Green Revolution, India has achieved remarkable self-reliance. The PHDCCI analysis indicates that foodgrain production is projected to reach approximately 3,357 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. This evolution signifies more than just calorie security; it reflects a structural shift where agriculture acts as a vital pillar of economic resilience, even maintaining a 4% growth rate during the global pandemic.
The Catalyst: Technological Advancements and Infrastructure
A critical finding of the report is that India’s agricultural transformation is no longer solely dependent on monsoon patterns. Instead, technological advancements in irrigation, electricity availability, and warehousing capacity have become the primary drivers of output. The integration of high-yielding seed varieties, precision farming, and digital agricultural missions has decoupled production from traditional climatic risks, fostering a more predictable and scalable business environment for stakeholders.
Future Outlook: Towards a $2 Trillion Food Ecosystem
Looking ahead, the report outlines a visionary roadmap for “Viksit Bharat @2047.” The food processing sector is expected to reach a staggering USD 2,150 billion by 2047, with agricultural exports targeted at USD 700 billion. To sustain this momentum, PHDCCI recommends a continued focus on science-led technology, crop diversification, and strengthening the “farm-to-fork” supply chain. By leveraging these strategic insights, India is poised to not only feed its own population but to remain a dominant force in the global food trade landscape.