India's Agricultural Policy Overhaul

Union Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi has proposed a significant shift in India's agricultural policy, advocating for a move away from a purely production-centric approach to one that is grounded in ethical principles. This change aims to balance food security with environmental sustainability.

From Utilitarian to Deontological

Chaturvedi highlighted the need to transition from a utilitarian mindset, which prioritizes production over ecological balance, to a deontological approach that emphasizes moral rules and sustainability. He questioned the excessive use of pesticides, irrigation, and groundwater in current farming practices.

Towards Self-Reliance

The secretary expressed confidence in India's progress towards self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds, thanks to new crop varieties. He stressed that sustainable agriculture is not just an economic issue but a livelihood imperative for millions of smallholder farmers.