Agriculture, also known as farming, is the practice of cultivating plants, animals, and other organisms to produce food, fiber, medicinal plants, and other products used to sustain and enhance human life. It is an essential sector of the economy and serves as the basis for food security and economic development in many countries.

Agriculture involves various activities such as soil preparation, seed sowing, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, harvesting, and post-harvest processing. It encompasses the production of crops, including grains, fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and pulses, as well as the rearing of livestock, poultry, and fish.

Modern agriculture employs advanced technologies and techniques to increase productivity, improve crop quality, and enhance sustainability. These include the use of machinery, irrigation systems, biotechnology, genetic engineering, precision agriculture, and sustainable farming practices.

Besides providing food, agriculture also contributes to the production of raw materials for industries such as textiles, biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and construction. It plays a vital role in rural development, employment creation, poverty reduction, and environmental conservation.

However, agriculture also faces various challenges such as climate change, limited natural resources, pests and diseases, market uncertainties, and the need for sustainable practices. These challenges require innovative solutions and the adoption of modern techniques to ensure the long-term viability of agriculture while minimizing its negative impact on the environment.