According to 2011 census, the country’s rural population is almost 83.25 crore (68.8% of total population). There has been wide consensus that the rural development should be inclusive and sustainable in order to alleviate the poverty. The tentative Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) for the Ministry of Rural Development for the Twelfth Five Year Plan (2012-17) is Rs. 44,3261 crore (against the Rs. 29,1682 crores of Eleventh Plan period) which includes the major programs.
Although agriculture now accounts for only 14 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), it is still the main source of livelihood for the majority of the rural population. As such rapid growth of agriculture is critical for inclusiveness. Important structural changes are taking place within the sector and there are definite signs of improved performance. Agricultural growth has accelerated compared to the Tenth Plan and diversification is proceeding.