Which of the following are the indicators of globalisation of agriculture?

A. Contract farming
B. Increased dependence of farmers on fertilisers and pesticides
C. Promotion of indigenous knowledge for agriculture
D. Entry of multinationals into agricultural sector

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

The correct answer is (A), (B), and (D) only.

Understanding Globalisation of Agriculture:
Globalisation in agriculture refers to the integration of national agricultural systems and markets with the global economy. This process is driven by trade liberalization, commercialization, the entry of private corporations, and the adoption of modern, high-input farming techniques to meet global market standards and demands.

Analyzing the Indicators:
Let us evaluate each of the given statements:

A. Contract farming: This is a key indicator of agricultural globalisation. Under contract farming, agricultural production is carried out based on an agreement between buyers (often multinational corporations or exporters) and farmers. It integrates local farming directly with national and international supply chains. Thus, (A) is correct.

B. Increased dependence of farmers on fertilisers and pesticides: Globalisation promotes commercialized, intensive agriculture to maximize yields for international markets. This shift leads to the adoption of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds and biotech crops, which require heavy inputs of chemical fertilisers and chemical pesticides. Hence, (B) is correct.

C. Promotion of indigenous knowledge for agriculture: Indigenous knowledge refers to local, traditional, and sustainable farming practices passed down through generations. Globalisation typically replaces local, traditional methods with standardized, commercial scientific techniques and global technologies. Therefore, promoting traditional indigenous knowledge is not a feature of globalisation; rather, it is often seen as an alternative or resistance to globalisation. Thus, (C) is incorrect.

D. Entry of multinationals into agricultural sector: The opening up of domestic markets allows large multinational corporations (MNCs) to enter the agricultural sector. These corporations participate in food processing, seed supply, pesticide manufacturing, and export-import operations, which is a direct consequence and indicator of globalisation. Thus, (D) is correct.

Conclusion:
Since indicators A, B, and D are characteristic of agricultural globalisation, while indicator C is not, the correct option is (A), (B), and (D) only.