India Needs Income-Focused Agriculture Policies and Stronger Centre-State Coordination: EAC-PM Chairman

Focus on Farmers' Incomes

The Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) said future agricultural policies should concentrate on improving farmers' incomes.

He noted that policy discussions should move beyond production targets and place greater emphasis on enhancing rural prosperity and economic resilience.

Need for Centre-State Coordination

Sanyal highlighted the importance of stronger cooperation between the Union and state governments in implementing agricultural reforms.

According to him, better coordination can help:

• Improve policy implementation.

• Increase farm incomes.

• Strengthen agricultural infrastructure.

• Promote sustainable rural development.

• Enhance market access for farmers.

These remarks reflect his views on agricultural policy.

Broader Agricultural Reforms

He suggested that agriculture should be viewed from an income-generation perspective, encouraging diversification, improved productivity, better value chains and stronger market linkages.

He also emphasised the role of innovation and technology in modernising the farm sector.

Policy Context

Agriculture remains a shared responsibility between the Centre and states, making cooperation essential for implementing reforms related to markets, infrastructure, irrigation, storage and farmer welfare.

Looking Ahead

As India seeks to strengthen rural livelihoods and agricultural competitiveness, discussions are expected to continue on policies that balance productivity with higher and more stable incomes for farmers through coordinated action by both levels of government.