Agriculture plays a crucial role in India’s economy and food security, but it is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. As the country works toward its climate commitments, experts say stronger and faster action is needed to make Indian agriculture more emission-free and sustainable. The farm sector contributes emissions mainly through the use of chemical fertilizers, methane from livestock, crop residue burning, and excessive use of water and energy.
With climate change already affecting crop yields and farmer incomes, reducing emissions has become both an environmental and economic priority 🌍🌾.While the government has launched several initiatives—such as promoting natural farming, encouraging efficient fertilizer use, and supporting renewable energy in rural areas—experts believe these efforts need to be scaled up. Wider adoption of climate-smart practices like precision farming, improved irrigation methods, and better livestock management can help cut emissions without hurting productivity ♻️🚜.
Technology and innovation also have a key role to play. Digital tools, improved seed varieties, and better access to carbon-friendly farming inputs can help farmers reduce their environmental footprint. However, limited awareness, high costs, and lack of training remain major challenges, particularly for small and marginal farmers.
Analysts say greater investment, stronger policy support, and better coordination between states and the Centre are essential to speed up the transition. Making agriculture emission-free will not only help India meet its climate goals but also ensure long-term sustainability for farmers and future generations 🌱🌞.
