India, June 12 -- India's expanding role in global agricultural markets raises a question that goes beyond export performance: How is the country integrating into global value chains. In a context shaped by geopolitical shifts, evolving trade patterns, and supply chain uncertainties, the issue is not whether to integrate, but how to do so while managing domestic risks.

Over the past decade, India's agri-food exports have grown from about $22-23 billion in 2013-14 to over $48 billion in 2023-24, with recent estimates close to $49 billion. This expansion reflects gains in production and improved market access. However, the export basket remains concentrated. Commodities such as rice, sugar, spices, and oilcakes account for a large share of...