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The Survey underlines that agriculture will be central to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, ensuring inclusive growth and improving the livelihoods of millions.
Agriculture key to Viksit Bharat vision
New Delhi: India’s agriculture sector continues to be a key pillar of economic growth and rural prosperity, with allied activities emerging as major income drivers, according to the Economic Survey 2025–26 tabled in Parliament on Wednesday.
The Survey underlines that agriculture will be central to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, ensuring inclusive growth and improving the livelihoods of millions.
Over the past five years, the agriculture and allied sector has recorded an average annual growth rate of 4.4 per cent at constant prices.
4.45 per cent growth during FY16–FY25
During the decade from FY16 to FY25, the sector posted a growth of 4.45 per cent - the highest compared to previous decades - reflecting strong structural resilience. In Q2 of FY 2025-26 alone, agriculture registered a growth of 3.5 per cent.
The Survey attributes this robust performance largely to allied sectors. Livestock recorded a growth of 7.1 per cent, while fishing and aquaculture grew by an impressive 8.8 per cent, outpacing the crop sector’s growth of 3.5 per cent.
Between FY15 and FY24, the livestock sector’s Gross Value Added (GVA) rose by nearly 195 per cent, clocking a CAGR of 12.77 per cent at current prices. Fisheries also showed strong momentum, with fish production increasing by over 140 per cent between 2014 and 2025.
Foodgrain production hit a record high
Foodgrain production touched a historic high of 3,577.3 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) in Agriculture Year 2024-25, marking an increase of 254.3 LMT over the previous year.
Higher production of rice, wheat, maize and coarse cereals (Shree Anna) played a key role in this achievement.
Horticulture has emerged as a bright spot, accounting for nearly 33 per cent of agricultural GVA. In 2024-25, horticulture production reached 362.08 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain output.
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Production has steadily increased from 280.70 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 367.72 million tonnes in 2024–25, driven by growth in fruits, vegetables and other high-value crops.
Country leads in dry onion output
India has also strengthened its global standing in horticulture, emerging as the world’s largest producer of dry onions and ranking second in the production of vegetables, fruits and potatoes.
The Economic Survey concludes that sustained growth in agriculture - especially through high-value allied sectors such as dairy, poultry, fisheries and horticulture - will be crucial in boosting farm incomes, strengthening rural livelihoods and steering the country towards the goal of a developed India.
