Livestock & fishing fuel agriculture growth, shows govt report

New Delhi: The livestock and fishing segments have become increasingly significant within India's agriculture sector, according to a government report released on Friday.

The share of livestock in the overall agriculture and allied sectors rose to 31.2% in 2023-24 from 25.6% in 2011-12, while fishing and aquaculture's share expanded to 7% from 4.2% over the same period.

"The data highlights a gradual diversification within the agricultural economy, reflecting changing demand patterns, policy support and technological improvements," the report titled 'Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors' noted.

Andhra Pradesh dominated the fishing sector, with a share of 39.1% in 2023-24. "This is mostly due to export-oriented shrimp farming, infrastructure support and inland aquaculture expansion," the report said. The 'agriculture and allied sectors' includes four sub-sectors--crop, livestock, forestry and logging, and fishing and aquaculture. While crop accounted for the highest share at 54.1% in 2023-24, it was a decline from 62.4% in 2011-12. Forestry and logging saw a slight dip to 7.7% from 7.8% in the same period.

Overall, the gross value of output (GVO) from agriculture and allied sectors reached ₹29.9 lakh crore in 2023-24 at constant prices, recording a growth of 54.9% from ₹19.1 lakh crore in 2011-12.

However, the sector's share in gross value added (GVA) declined to 14.7% in 2023-24 from 18.5% in 2011-12, indicating a shift in the economy towards industry and services. "While agriculture continues to grow and remains critical for employment and rural livelihoods, the economy is increasingly driven by industry and services. This trend underscores the need for agricultural modernisation and diversification to ensure rural growth keeps pace with broader economic progress," the report mentioned.