Introduction
Agriculture is the practice of tilling the soil, cultivating crops, and breeding livestock for food, fiber, and other essential resources crucial for human survival. It encompasses a variety of tasks such as plowing, seeding, watering, harvesting, and animal care.
The term "agriculture" originates from the Latin words "ager" (field) and "cultura" (cultivation). In India, agriculture is deeply ingrained in ancient customs and scriptures, many of which highlight agricultural techniques and principles.
Ancient Texts' Reference
Agriculture in India has a diverse and rich history that dates back thousands of years. The civilization of the Indus Valley, one of the world's earliest urban societies, flourished around 2500-1700 BCE and had sophisticated agricultural practices. They cultivated a variety of crops including wheat, barley, rice, and pulses, and utilized advanced techniques such as irrigation systems and crop rotation.
The Vedic period (1500-500 BCE) in ancient India marked a significant development in agricultural knowledge and practices. The Rigveda, one of the oldest Vedic texts, contains hymns dedicated to agricultural deities like Indra (associated with rain and fertility) and Parjanya (god of rain and thunderstorms). It reflects a deep reverence for nature and emphasizes the importance of agriculture in sustaining life.
The concept of "Krishi" (agriculture) became more structured during the later Vedic period and the subsequent eras. Treatises such as the Arthashastra by Kautilya (4th century BCE) and the writings of ancient scholars like Varahamihira and Vagbhata provided insights into agricultural practices, land management, and irrigation techniques of their time.
During the medieval period, advancements in agriculture continued under various dynasties such as the Mauryas, Guptas, and later the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. The Mughal rulers, in particular, promoted horticulture, introduced new crops like tobacco and maize, and established extensive gardens (baghs) and orchards.
Hindu texts beyond the Vedas and Puranas, such as the Dharmashastras and Aranyakas, also contain references to agricultural ethics, land tenure systems, and the role of agriculture in sustaining social order and dharma (righteousness).
Agriculture in India
In more recent centuries, India witnessed transformations in agriculture due to colonial influences and the Green Revolution of the mid-20th century, which introduced high-yielding varieties of seeds, modern agricultural techniques, and improved infrastructure.
Today, agriculture remains a critical sector of India's economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to the nation's GDP. While modern agricultural practices have evolved, ancient wisdom and traditions continue to influence farming practices, crop diversity, and sustainable agricultural development across the country.