Himachal’s agriculture sector faces uncertain future

The future of agriculture in the state appears grim, with erratic weather conditions over the past few years and shifting crop harvesting timelines driving the youth away from the agriculture sector.

With 90 per cent of the state’s population residing in rural areas, approximately 70 per cent are engaged in agriculture. A variety of crops such as wheat, maize, vegetables, pulses and several fruits, including apples, are grown in Himachal Pradesh. However, various factors are adversely affecting the total agricultural output. According to experts in the field, if current trends continue, the state of agriculture in Himachal Pradesh could deteriorate significantly over the next 10 to 15 years.

Over the years, the state has seen a decline in its agriculture produce, which has made life increasingly difficult for families dependent on farming, leaving them with no choice but to seek alternative means of livelihood. As a result, thousands of youths from farming backgrounds migrate each year to neighbouring states such as Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, and even farther to Maharashtra and Goa, in search of employment. While some secure decent jobs, many end up in low-paying roles in sectors such as hospitality or entry-level positions.

Agriculture remains one of the primary occupations in the state and plays a crucial role in its economy. It directly employs approximately 53.95 per cent of the total workforce. In the financial year 2024-25, agriculture and its allied sectors contributed around 14.70 per cent to the state’s Gross State Value Added (GSVA), highlighting a disparity in labour investment versus economic return. Of the total geographical area of 55.67 lakh hectares, about 9.44 lakh hectares fall under operational holdings, cultivated by nearly 9.97 lakh farmers. The average landholding size is approximately 0.95 hectares.

According to the Economic Survey 2024-25, wheat production in the state declined by 19.76 per cent in 2024-25 compared to 2023-24. Similarly, rice/paddy and ragi witnessed a decline of 6.39 per cent and 6.25 per cent, respectively. The report also highlighted a gradual shift towards commercial crops, leading to a decrease in the area under food grain cultivation, from 853.88 thousand hectares in 1997-98 to 688.69 thousand hectares in 2023-24.

Experts have expressed concern over the deteriorating state of agriculture in Himachal Pradesh and emphasised the urgent need to promote and revitalise the sector.

Ravinder Singh Jasrotia, Director of the Department of Agriculture, acknowledged the declining interest of youth in agriculture as a matter of concern. He attributed this trend largely to erratic weather conditions that have adversely impacted farming. “The state often experiences heavy rainfall, hailstorms and other extreme weather events just before the harvest season, causing significant crop damage and losses for farmers. Additionally, changing harvesting timelines have contributed to the decline in agricultural productivity,” he said.