11th Agriculture Census (2021-22): Field Work Completed
UPSC / SSC current affairs note
Why in news
The 11th Agriculture Census for reference year 2021-22, initiated in 2022, has completed its field work and data collection across all three phases within the stipulated time. This was informed by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 21 July 2026.
Background
Agriculture Census in India is conducted every five years in collaboration with states and union territories. The census provides a reliable database on socio-economic aspects of operational holders, used for policy formulation.
Key facts
11th Agriculture Census reference year: 2021-22; started in 2022.
Field work conducted in three phases: Phase I (complete enumeration of primary characteristics and operated area), Phase II (20% sample villages per tehsil for crop pattern, irrigation, etc.), Phase III (7% sample villages per tehsil for input use pattern).
Data collected on number, size, and distribution of operational holdings by class (marginal, small, semi-medium, medium, large), tenancy, consolidation, land distribution.
Provides gender-disaggregated data on women-operated land holdings.
Data used for efficient allocation of subsidies, credit facilities, targeting rural development programs, and setting national/regional agricultural priorities.
Serves as a key data source for researchers, planners, and stakeholders.
Prelims pointers
- 11th Agriculture Census
- Reference year: 2021-22
- Conducted every 5 years
- Three phases: Phase I (complete enumeration), Phase II (20% sample), Phase III (7% sample)
- Operational holdings classified as marginal, small, semi-medium, medium, large
- Data on women-operated holdings
- Ministry: Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
- Lok Sabha reply date: 21 July 2026
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of Agriculture Census in formulating evidence-based agricultural policies and addressing challenges of small and marginal farmers.
- Critically examine the role of gender-disaggregated data from Agriculture Census in promoting women's empowerment in agriculture.
- How does the Agriculture Census help in efficient targeting of subsidies, credit, and rural development programs? Analyze.