Baramati (Maharashtra), Jan 19 (IANS): Technology-induced agricultural growth was the way ahead for India, President Pranab Mukherjee said Sunday, calling upon agricultural institutions to develop new technologies for greater farm development.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new building and a technology exhibition at the premises of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) here, Mukherjee called upon the entire network of agricultural research, education and extension institutions to develop new technologies.

"The Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, 2013, has underlined the importance of fostering innovations in agriculture. This policy has also envisaged a greater mentoring role for grass-root institutions like KVKs," he said.

"India ranks first in milk production and second in fish production in the world. Given the rising demand for these food items, a focused strategy is required to leverage their production potential."

"Technology-led growth in horticulture, livestock, dairy, and fisheries sectors would help usher in a rainbow revolution in agriculture."

Stressing that growth in agriculture has to benefit all sections of society, Mukherjee said studies have indicated that a one percentage growth in agriculture is two times more effective in poverty eradication compared to growth in other sectors.

"The National Food Security Act was enacted in September 2013 to provide legal guarantee for foodgrain at affordable prices to more than 800 million people. The rollout and successful implementation of this world's largest social sector programme would depend on the success of our agriculture sector."