Indian Prime Minister calls for export-oriented shift in agriculture

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that India should move toward a more export-oriented agricultural sector, stressing the need to improve quality, branding and standards to strengthen the global competitiveness of Indian farm products.

Speaking at the third post-Budget webinar on “Agriculture and Rural Transformation” in New Delhi, the prime minister described agriculture as a “strategic pillar” of the country’s long-term development and highlighted government measures aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes and reducing sector risks.

Modi said expanded access to credit, wider crop insurance coverage and reforms to minimum support prices have helped improve income prospects for farmers.

He also urged farmers to take advantage of India’s diverse agro-climatic conditions by expanding production of high-value crops to strengthen the country’s position in global agricultural markets.

“Steps need to be taken to promote all aspects of quality, branding and standards of Indian agriculture produce. Agri experts, industry and farmers will have to come together to achieve this goal,” Modi said.

The prime minister noted that the federal budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year places a stronger focus on high-value agriculture, including crops such as cashew, cocoa and sandalwood.

He added that initiatives such as the National Mission on Edible Oils and Pulses and the National Mission on Natural Farming are designed to strengthen the agricultural sector and support more sustainable production practices.

“If we scale up the high-value agri sector, only then we can convert our agriculture sector to a globally competitive sector,” Modi said.

Highlighting changing global consumption patterns, he said India should adapt by strengthening its agricultural exports.

“Today the markets of the world are opening, and global demand is changing,” he said, adding that India’s wide range of agro-climatic zones offers an advantage in expanding export-oriented production.

Modi also pointed to growing global demand for healthier and organic foods, saying the trend creates opportunities for India to expand natural and chemical-free farming and increase its presence in international agricultural markets.