Where is India’s agricultural policy ecosystem heading?
03-Dec-2025 12:34 PM
New Delhi. India’s agri-value chain today appears more fragmented and anxious than ever, with multiple industries simultaneously seeking policy interventions. Despite recent duty hikes, the pulses industry continues to demand higher import duties, arguing that heavy inflows from overseas are still suppressing domestic prices. The edible oil industry is pressing for an increase in import duties on both crude and refined oils, along with export incentives for oilseed meals.
The sugar sector is urging the government to revise the MSP of sugar upward, while maize- and sugar-based industries are advocating for a hike in ethanol procurement prices to maintain viability. In contrast, the poultry industry—stressed by feed costs—is asking for permission to import maize.
The wheat industry is requesting the government to at least open exports of wheat products, given the rising stock pressure and weak domestic demand. Meanwhile, the rice industry is struggling with massive inventories and remains unsure about what relief to seek. The cotton sector, on the other hand, wants imports restricted to support domestic prices.
These diverse and often contradictory demands reflect deep stress across agricultural value chains. Nearly every segment is seeking urgent government action—ranging from higher MSPs and export relaxations to import restrictions and duty revisions.
At this point, the larger question remains: Where is India’s agricultural policy ecosystem heading, when nearly every sector is asking for intervention at the same time?