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13 Apr 2026
GS Paper 2
Geography & Economy
Q. Write short note on the following : Discuss the performance of the Agriculture and Allied Sectors in Bihar as highlighted in the Bihar Economic Survey 2024–25. Examine the role of government initiatives and suggest a future-oriented way forward. 7
Approach:
- Briefly state the importance of agriculture in Bihar’s economy using GSVA data.
- Analyze crop trends, allied sector performance, and government initiatives.
- Suggest future-oriented reforms for sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth.
Answer: Agriculture and allied sectors form the economic backbone of Bihar, sustaining livelihoods for a large section of the population. According to the Bihar Economic Survey 2024–25, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries together contribute nearly 20% to the Gross State Value Added (GSVA), highlighting their central role in the state’s development.
Crop Production and Agricultural Growth
- Paddy (kharif) and wheat (rabi) remain the dominant crops.
- Rice and wheat production is projected to rise by 21% and 10.7%, respectively, between 2022–23 and 2023–24.
- Maize production recorded a sharp increase of 66.6% between 2020–21 and 2023–24, indicating progress toward crop diversification and improved productivity.
Performance of Allied Sectors
- Horticulture:
- Mango production increased by 9.7% and litchi by 11.7% from 2022–23 to 2023–24.
- Bihar emerged as a national leader in makhana, contributing 85% of India’s total production in 2023–24.
- Fisheries and Livestock:
- Fish production rose by 45% between 2018–19 and 2023–24, alongside steady growth in milk and egg output.
- Targeted schemes like the Chief Minister Integrated Char Vikas Scheme and Pond Fisheries Development Scheme supported this expansion.
Institutional, Financial, and Infrastructure Support
- Kisan Credit Card (KCC) disbursements more than doubled, from ₹3,204.51 crore (2019–20) to ₹7,080.07 crore (2023–24).
- Irrigation investment increased to ₹1,674.2 crore in 2023–24, with 90% capital expenditure, strengthening long-term assets.
- Under Har Khet Tak Sinchai, irrigation facilities were restored across 1,02,957 hectares.
- Rising agricultural power consumption (17.6%) reflects increased mechanization, supported by higher subsidies.
Bihar’s agriculture is gradually moving from subsistence-oriented farming to a diversified and growth-driven sector. Looking ahead, strengthening climate-resilient practices, promoting value addition and agro-processing, and expanding market access can significantly raise farm incomes. With sustained public investment, technological adoption, and robust institutional support, agriculture and allied sectors can emerge as a powerful engine of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development in Bihar.
