The South Asian countries are gradually diversifying with some
inter-country variation in favor of high value commodities,
namely fruits, vegetables, livestock and fisheries. Agricultural
diversification is strongly influenced by price policy,
infrastructure development (especially markets and roads),
urbanization and technological improvements. Rainfed areas have
benefited more as a result of agricultural diversification in
favor of high value crops by substituting inferior coarse
cereals. Agricultural diversification is also contributing to
employment opportunities in agriculture and increasing exports.
The need is to suitably integrate production and marketing of
high value commodities through appropriate institutions. Market
reforms in developing and strengthening desired institutions
through required legal changes would go a long way in boosting
agricultural growth, augmenting income of small farm holders and
promoting exports. patterns, determinants, and policy
implications International Food Policy Res