UPSC Agriculture Notes 2025, Topic wise, Download PDF

Agriculture Notes for UPSC includes the study materials in PDF format, covering topics relevant for UPSC CSE 2025. The UPSC Agriculture Notes includes detailed study material for types of farming systems, agricultural technologies, agricultural marketing and trade, government schemes and policies related to agriculture, agricultural research and development, and sustainable farming practices. The notes are organized for easy self-study and revision, helping aspirants prepare for the agriculture section. Download the Agriculture Notes for UPSC PDF for an accessible and structured way of understanding the subject.

Agriculture Notes for UPSC

The UPSC Agriculture Notes by Vajiram and Ravi are well crafted and updated notes. Designed by expert faculty, these notes cover all important topics which are relevant to the UPSC Syllabus 2025, providing aspirants with organized and accessible study material for effective preparation. 

UPSC Agriculture

UPSC Agriculture questions play an important role in UPSC CSE 2025. To stay well-prepared, it’s essential to have updated UPSC Agriculture Notes. These notes will help aspirants cover all necessary topics efficiently. Below are the key topics included in the UPSC Syllabus 2025, which are covered in the Agriculture Notes for UPSC:

Indian Agriculture – Agriculture scenario in India

Agriculture is a cornerstone of India’s economy, with diverse agro-climatic zones and a rich history. Key milestones like the Green and White Revolutions, PL 480, Contract Farming, and initiatives like the National Seed Policy and Horticulture Missions are shaping the sector’s future.

• Indian Agriculture – Agriculture scenario in India
  • Agro climatic Zones of India
  • Green revolution
    • PL 480
  • White revolution
  • Contract Farming
  • National Seed Policy
  • Horticulture Sector of India
    • National Horticulture Mission
    • National Horticulture Board
  • Agriculture Input 

Major Types of Crops in India

India’s diverse climate supports various crops. Major categories include Kharif and Rabi crops, with staples like rice and wheat. Methods like System for Rice Intensification (SRI) and crops like millets, pulses, and oilseeds contribute significantly to the nation’s agricultural output.

• Major Types of Crops in India
  • Kharif and Rabi Crops
  • Rice
    • System for Rice Intensification – SRI method of rice cultivation
  • Wheat
  • Millets
  • Pulses
  • Oilseeds

Cropping Pattern

Cropping pattern refers to the arrangement and sequence of crops cultivated in a given area during a specific period. In India, factors like climate, soil type, and water availability influence cropping patterns, ensuring optimal land use and enhancing agricultural productivity.

• Cropping Pattern

Irrigation in India

Irrigation plays a critical role in India’s agriculture, supporting crop growth in regions with inadequate rainfall. Micro-irrigation techniques, such as drip and sprinkler systems, improve water use efficiency, conserve resources, and boost agricultural productivity in water-scarce areas.

• Irrigation in India
  • Micro-Irrigation

Economics of Animal Rearing

Animal rearing is vital to India’s rural economy, contributing to livelihood and food security. Key initiatives like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Dairy Development Board, National Livestock Mission, and PM Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aim to enhance productivity and sustainable practices in animal husbandry.

• Economics of Animal Rearing
  • Animal Husbandry
  • Rashtriya Gokul Mission
  • National Dairy Development Board
  • National Livestock Mission
  • Livestock Census
  • PM Matsya Sampada Yojana – PMMSY

Agriculture Storage and Transportation

Efficient storage and transportation are crucial for reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring food security. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) plays a pivotal role in managing the procurement, storage, and distribution of food grains across India, ensuring timely supply and access.

• Agriculture Storage and Transportation
  • Food Corporartion of India – FCI

Agriculture Marketing

Effective marketing is key to enhancing farmer incomes and ensuring fair prices. Initiatives like E-NAM (National Agriculture Market), APMC (Agriculture Produce Market Committee) Act, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and the Agriculture Export Policy aim to streamline marketing, promote transparency, and boost agricultural exports.

• Agriculture Marketing
  • E-NAM : National Agriculture Market
  • APMC – Agriculture Produce Market Committee and APMC Act
  • FPO – Farmer Producer Organisation
  • Agriculture Export Policy – Agri export from India

Farm Subsidies in India

Farm subsidies are vital for supporting agricultural stability and income. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) ensures fair prices for crops, while the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane protects farmers from price fluctuations, promoting sustainability in the agricultural sector.

• Farm Subsidies in India
  • MSP – Minimum Support Price
  • Fair and Renumerative Price – FRP for Sugarcane

PDS – Public Distribution System

The Public Distribution System (PDS) ensures food security by providing subsidized grains to low-income families. The National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013 strengthens this system, guaranteeing access to affordable food and improving the nutritional status of vulnerable populations in India.

• PDS – Public Distribution System
  • Food Security in India
  • NFSA – National Food Security Act 2013

Technology Missions in Agriculture

Technology missions aim to enhance agricultural productivity through innovation and knowledge transfer. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and Agriculture Extension Services play a vital role in disseminating advanced agricultural techniques, empowering farmers with the tools and information needed for sustainable growth and development.

• Technology Missions in Agriculture
  • Krishi Vigyan Kendra
  • Agriculture Extension Services 

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture focuses on eco-friendly and resource-efficient practices. Initiatives like the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), organic farming, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), and Integrated Farming System (IFS) aim to promote long-term agricultural sustainability while maintaining soil health and reducing environmental impact.

• Sustainable Agriculture
  • NMSA – National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
  • Organic Farming
  • Zero Budget Natural Farming – ZBNF
  • Integrated Farming System – IFS

Food Processing Industry in India

The food processing industry plays a crucial role in enhancing agricultural value and food security. Initiatives like Mega Food Parks, PM Kisan Sampada Yojana, and food fortification aim to boost production, improve nutrition, and create employment opportunities while promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

• Food Processing Industry in India
  • Mega Food Parks
  • PM Kisan Sampada Yojana
  • Food Fortification

Schemes for Agriculture and farmers

Various government schemes support agricultural growth and farmers’ welfare. Programs like PM Kisan provide financial assistance, while addressing critical issues like farmer suicides in India through welfare initiatives, mental health support, and improving agricultural sustainability.

• Schemes for Agriculture and farmers
  • PM Kisan
    • Farmer suicides in India