Q.5. What are the causes of low agricultural productivity in India?

Low agricultural productivity in India can be attributed to a variety of factors, including:

• Small Size of Holdings: The average farm size in India is small, which limits the scope for mechanization and economies of scale.

• Vicious Circle of Poverty: Farmers often lack the capital to invest in better inputs and technology, leading to low productivity.

• Indebtedness: High levels of debt among farmers can prevent them from investing in improvements or adopting new technologies.

• Inadequate Irrigation Facilities: Dependence on erratic monsoon rains rather than reliable irrigation systems can lead to inconsistent yields.

• Lack of Adequate Finance: Farmers may struggle to secure the necessary credit to invest in their farms.

• Lack of Marketing Facilities: Inefficient marketing systems can reduce farmers’ profits and their ability to reinvest in their farms.

• No Scientific Methods of Cultivation: Traditional farming methods and a lack of knowledge about modern techniques can hinder productivity.

These challenges are complex and interrelated, requiring comprehensive and integrated solutions to enhance agricultural productivity in India.