TREND AND GROWTH OF INDIA’S AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS IN THE POST-REFORM PERIOD

Abstract

The study is focused on evaluating the growth and trend of India's agricultural exports after the implementation of economic reforms. The changes in the composition and volume of agricultural exports and imports in the post-reform period, especially after the economic reforms of 1991, demonstrate significant shifts in India's agricultural trade. The liberalization measures adopted during this period, with the aim of integrating the Indian economy into the global market, have deeply influenced the agricultural sector. The post-reform period has seen substantial growth and diversification in India’s agricultural trade, influenced by liberalized trade policies, global market dynamics, and technological advancements. While opportunities for expansion remain, addressing challenges such as climate change, market access, and sustainability will be crucial for future growth. The results indicate that India's agricultural exports have experienced remarkable growth from 1990–1991 to 2020–2021. India's agricultural exports grew from $3.35 billion in 1990-91 to $35.93 billion in 2019-20, marking a nearly 12-fold increase over 30 years. The country is currently facing significant challenges such as low productivity and high logistics costs, limited value addition, challenges in export promotion and branding, non-tariff barriers, and quality issues.