The economy has evolved from nature-based traditional systems to modern human-centric mechanisms.
- Despite advancements, the core human aspiration for a healthy and long life remains unchanged.
- Economic activities, particularly occupations and lifestyles, directly influence the environment and quality of life.
Role of Agriculture in Rural Economy
- Agriculture is traditionally sustainable and remains crucial for rural revival.
- It ensures food security and provides raw materials and employment
- The sector can offer white-collar jobs through allied activities and value-addition processes.
Current Challenges in Assam’s Rural Economy
- Poor market access and pricing: Farmers often don’t understand MSP, are exploited by middlemen.
- Low demand for local produce like paddy and vegetables.
- Cost of production not recovered, leading to disinterest in farming.
- Agricultural land abandonment or conversion for activities like fish farming.
- Overdependence on free rice schemes reduces incentive to produce.
Issues in Agricultural Infrastructure
- Lack of cold storage facilities, leading to post-harvest losses.
- Poor irrigation infrastructure and insufficient marketing systems.
- Inadequate flood control and limited access to credit (e.g. interest-free loans).
Government Intervention: The Way Forward
- Procurement and redistribution of local produce (paddy, vegetables, fruits).
- Cold storage development at village panchayat level.
- Use of MGNREGA to revive irrigation channels and water bodies.
- Promotion of organic farming, contract farming, community/public farming, and crop insurance.
- Support for green industrialisation and agricultural education to generate rural employment.
Strategic Recommendations
- Import substitution: Reduce reliance on external supply of vegetables, fruits, and other agri-products.
- Export promotion of niche, eco-friendly local products.
- Embrace Ricardian Comparative Advantage: Focus on a few specialised agri-products for efficient production and export.
- Re-evaluation of agri-based industries (heavy, medium, and small-scale) for economic diversification.
Agricultural revitalisation is vital for inclusive development. A balance between sustainability and modernisation in agriculture is needed. Assam should lead by example in promoting green, self-reliant, and export-oriented rural economy.
