Which of the following is the most labour intensive sector of the Indian economy?

The correct answer is Agriculture.

Key Points

• Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for about 58% of India’s population.
• It is the most labor-intensive sector in India, employing a significant portion of the workforce, especially in rural areas.
• The agricultural sector includes a wide range of activities such as farming, animal husbandry, and fisheries.
• Despite its high labor intensity, agriculture contributes around 17-18% to India's GDP.

Additional Information

• Green Revolution:
  • Introduced in the 1960s, it led to a significant increase in food grain production, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
  • It involved the use of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, and improved irrigation facilities.
  • The Green Revolution made India self-sufficient in food grains.
• Types of Farming:
  • Subsistence farming: Small-scale farming for self-consumption.
  • Commercial farming: Large-scale farming for sale in the market.
  • Mixed farming: Combination of crop cultivation and livestock farming.
• Major Crops:
  • Food grains: Rice, wheat, millet, pulses.
  • Commercial crops: Cotton, sugarcane, jute, oilseeds.
  • Horticulture: Fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices.
• Challenges in Agriculture:
  • Dependence on monsoon rains for irrigation.
  • Fragmented land holdings due to inheritance laws.
  • Limited access to modern technology and credit facilities.
  • Fluctuating market prices and inadequate storage infrastructure.