Question

The percentage share of agriculture to total national export during 2020-21 was about :

• A. 20%
• B. 14%
• C. 10%
• D. 5%

Hint:

During economic shocks, agriculture often acts as a cushion for the Indian economy.
In 2020-21, its export share rose to approximately 14%, up from around 11.3% in the previous fiscal year (2019-20), highlighting its stability.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Agricultural exports are a vital component of India's international trade and play a major role in the overall economic development of the country.
During the fiscal year 2020-21, amid the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, India's agricultural sector demonstrated remarkable resilience, registering robust export growth while many other sectors faced contraction.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to official trade statistics and the Economic Survey of India, the country's total national merchandise exports in 2020-21 stood at approximately USD 291.8 billion.
During the same period, the export of agricultural and allied commodities reached an all-time high of USD 41.25 billion, growing by more than 17% compared to the previous year.
To determine the percentage share, we can use the following calculation:
\[ \text{Percentage Share} = \left( \frac{\text{Agricultural Exports}}{\text{Total National Exports}} \right) \times 100 \]
\[ \text{Percentage Share} = \left( \frac{41.25}{291.8} \right) \times 100 \approx 14.14\% \]
Therefore, the percentage share of agriculture to total national exports during 2020-21 was about 14%.
This robust performance was primarily driven by the surging global demand for staple food grains, particularly non-basmati rice, wheat, and sugar, as well as oil meals.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The percentage share of agriculture to total national export during 2020-21 was about 14% (Option B).