National agricultural land: A strategy for empowering agricultural land and local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises to accelerate national economic and political stability

Abstract

Background: National economic and political stability is strongly influenced by the level of economic self-reliance, particularly in the agricultural sector and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the backbone of the people’s economy. Low human resource quality, dependence on food imports, and large-scale agricultural policies that are insufficiently sustainable have weakened small farmers and increased socio-economic vulnerability, thereby necessitating more inclusive local economic empowerment strategies. Methods: This study employs a conceptual review and policy analysis approach through literature review, national policy documents, and secondary data from the agricultural and MSME sectors, using a political economy of development perspective. Findings: Based on comparative analysis of previous agricultural empowerment programs, policy documents, and stakeholder consultations, the Nagriland Program is projected to potentially increase land productivity by up to 40%, farmers’ income by up to 50%, reduce food imports by up to 30%, and increase MSME turnover by up to 70% within five years. The program also promotes the expansion of sustainable agricultural practices to 80% of cultivated land through technology adoption, environmental stewardship, and integrated land management strategies. These findings reinforce political economy theory, which positions economic self-reliance as a prerequisite for political stability. Conclusion: The Nagriland Program represents an effective policy model for empowering agriculture and MSMEs by bridging the gap between macro-level policies and grassroots realities through an integrated approach based on technology, equitable partnerships, and environmental sustainability. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this article lies in the formulation of a spatially, digitally, and institutionally integrated empowerment model for smallholder agricultural land and MSMEs without land expansion, offering an inclusive, environmentally friendly, and community-oriented alternative for national food policy.