Trends and patterns of agricultural production in Karnataka

Agriculture continue to play an important role in Indian economy, as most of the rural people dependent on the agriculture sector, directly or indirectly for their livelihood security. Contribution of agriculture sector to total GDP is significant in terms of quantity. Present study was undertaken with The Objective of the analyzing the trends of agriculture production in Karnataka. The present study based on secondary sources of data. The study found that Of total geographical area, 64% of it is cultivated every year. 120 lakh hectares is gross cultivated area. 41.37 lakh hectares is gross irrigated area. Rice, ragi, maize and bajra were traditionally major crops in Karnataka. The total production of rice, ragi and maize has decreased from 1980–81 to 2012–13. However, most significant increase is seen in the production of maize and sugarcane. Recognizing the need, In view of comprehensive development of agriculture, government‘s thrust has been given on department flagship programmes viz., “Krishi Bhagya”, “Bhoochetana”, Organic farming, Farm mechanization, Custom Hiring Centers and Micro-irrigation. Despite these, major initiatives are needed for improving total production of cereals, pulses and oil seeds so as to meet the needs of growing population.