Legal Incentives for Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Taxation, Subsidies, and Govt. Programs with a Focus on Farmers' Social Security.

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture is vital for India's economy, especially as climate change, environmental degradation, and market instability increasingly affect farmers. This article explores the role of legal incentives, such as tax policies, subsidies, and government programs, in promoting sustainable agricultural practices while ensuring social security for farmers. India's current legal framework includes initiatives like the ‘National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture’ and tax exemptions under the ‘Income Tax Act.’ However, these measures are often insufficient for small and marginal farmers, who make up a significant portion of the farming population. The research highlights that while government schemes offer financial support, they do not always prioritize long-term sustainability or adequately reach vulnerable farmers. The article compares India’s legal approach with international models, such as the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy and the United States' conservation programs, which tie financial support to environmentally friendly practices. These models demonstrate how legal incentives can be directly linked to sustainable agriculture, while also addressing social security concerns. Based on this comparative analysis, the article proposes key reforms for India, including linking subsidies and tax benefits to sustainable farming practices, offering targeted support to small farmers, and developing a unified legal framework that integrates environmental goals with farmers' welfare. The findings suggest that legal reforms are needed to make sustainable agriculture both accessible and economically viable for all farmers. By adopting a more inclusive and cohesive legal framework, India can promote agricultural sustainability while ensuring that farmers, especially smallholders, receive the financial and social protection they need. The article also calls for further research into regional agricultural challenges and the impact of climate change on farming practices in India.

Keywords: Sustainable agriculture, legal incentives, social security, taxation, subsidies, government programs, India