Q.Why is agriculture still important in Telangana even though it contributes a relatively small share of state income? List the major crops of the state.

This question links agriculture's role in livelihoods with its smaller role in output.

Agriculture matters because it is the main source of livelihood for a large part of the population and supplies food and industrial raw materials, even though services and industry contribute more to GSDP. Major crops include **paddy (rice), cotton, maize, sugarc …

Why agriculture remains important despite a smaller output share:

• Livelihood and employment: A very large share of Telangana's people — close to half the workforce — depend on agriculture and allied activities for their living, even though the sector contributes only about a sixth of state output.
• Food security: Crops such as paddy meet the food needs of the state's population.
• Raw materials: Cotton, sugarcane and other crops feed the state's textile, sugar and agro-processing industries.
• Rural economy: Farm incomes support demand for goods and services in villages and small towns.
• Equity concern: Because so many people depend on it, improving agriculture is essential for reducing rural poverty and distress.

Major crops of Telangana:

• Paddy (rice) — the leading food crop, expanding rapidly with improved irrigation.
• Cotton — a major commercial crop.
• Maize, sugarcane, mango and tobacco are also important. …

Assuming that a small output share means agriculture is unimportant — its large employment share makes it vital. Al …