Sectoral equations of sustainability: Narrative of plantation sector in India

Abstract

The present article narrates several pressing issues affecting the sustainability of the plantation sector in India and suggests an alternate frame for restructuring the sector towards achieving the goal of sustainability. The narration starts off with quickly traversing through the economic history of plantation crops in India and subsequently discusses the crucial issues to contemplate including cropping patterns, price instability, institutional arrangements, as well as preparedness for the ongoing free trade agreements. Further, sustainability and inclusive growth has been debated in light of existing labour market institutions and the collective bargaining power of the small and marginal holders. The aspect of environment sustainability in terms of loss of biodiversity and soil deterioration with specific crop wise detailing is also attempted in a separate session. The plantation sector in general is far off from inclusive growth, as most of the global value chains are buyer driven and the production node is characterized by the lowest value share accumulation. The article strongly argues for revamping the existing innovation system of the plantation sector in India.