Comparative Analysis of National Policies for Sustainable Agricultural Development and Their Effects on Resource Use Efficiency

Abstract

Sustainable agricultural development is essential for tackling global issues like food security, environmental degradation, and climate change. Countries implement varied policy frameworks to encourage sustainable agricultural practices, shaped by differences in socio-economic conditions, resource availability, and political priorities. This paper provides a comparative analysis of national policies aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural development, focusing on their effectiveness in enhancing resource use efficiency. The study examines policies from three countries: the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), Brazil's low-carbon agriculture plan (Plano ABC), and India's National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA). By evaluating these policies through the lenses of environmental sustainability, economic incentives, and social inclusiveness, the paper highlights best practices and identifies challenges in achieving optimal resource use efficiency. The comparative framework considers factors such as water use, soil management, carbon emissions, and the adoption of green technologies. The analysis reveals that while the EU's CAP provides comprehensive support for agri-environmental measures, its implementation faces constraints due to varying member state priorities. Brazil's Plano ABC shows promise in reducing carbon footprints in agriculture but struggles with issues like enforcement and monitoring. India's NMSA, on the other hand, aims to build climate resilience among smallholder farmers but faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and resource allocation. The findings suggest that tailored policy approaches, which consider local conditions and incorporate stakeholder engagement, are essential for improving resource use efficiency in agriculture. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to enhance international cooperation and knowledge-sharing, aiming to achieve sustainable agricultural practices that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.