India's Agriculture Sector's Journey towards Sustainable Development Goals: Assessing Governmental Interventions and Sectoral Outcomes

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) comprise a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations to tackle urgent worldwide challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation.Numerous SDGs are directly linked to the realms of food and agriculture.SDG 2, named Zero Hunger, focuses on ending hunger, achieving food security, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture.SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production, addresses the need for sustainable food systems and the reduction of food waste.SDG 13, Climate Action, underscores the connection between agriculture and efforts for climate change mitigation and adaptation.Additionally, SDG 15, Life on Land, emphasizes the significance of safeguarding terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity, often impacted by agricultural practices.These goals collectively highlight the pivotal role of food and agriculture in realizing broader sustainable development objectives.India, with its significant agrarian base, stands at the forefront of addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the agriculture sector.This paper delves into the multifaceted challenges encountered by the Indian economy concerning SDGs in agriculture and examines the diverse array of initiatives introduced by the government to attain these goals.Through a comprehensive review of literature and policy analysis, this paper identifies key areas such as poverty alleviation, food security, sustainable land use, water management, and rural livelihoods, among others, where concerted efforts are required to achieve the SDGs.Furthermore, it explores the intricate interplay between socio-economic factors, environmental sustainability, and technological advancements in shaping the trajectory of Indian agriculture.By critically evaluating government interventions, including policies, programs, and schemes, the paper elucidates their effectiveness, gaps, and potential areas for improvement.Insights from this research aim to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and practitioners in designing holistic strategies to navigate the complexities of sustainable development in Indian agriculture.