Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Green Revolution, initiated in the 1960s by M.S. Swaminathan and others, marked a pivotal moment in India’s agricultural history. Aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in food grains, particularly wheat and rice, it involved the introduction of High Yielding Varieties (HYVs) of seeds, along with increased use of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation. While successfully averting a potential famine and boosting food production, the Green Revolution inadvertently led to a decline in the cultivation of indigenous crops, impacting biodiversity and nutritional security. This answer will discuss the effects of the Green Revolution on indigenous crops and the subsequent government measures to improve productivity and diversify agriculture.
Impact of the Green Revolution on Indigenous Crops
The Green Revolution, while successful in increasing the production of wheat and rice, had several detrimental effects on indigenous crops. The focus on a limited number of crops led to a significant decline in the cultivation of diverse traditional varieties.
- Crop Displacement: HYVs of wheat and rice were prioritized, leading to the displacement of traditional crops like millets (jowar, bajra, ragi), pulses (lentil, chickpeas), oilseeds (groundnut, sesame), and coarse grains. Farmers shifted to these HYVs due to assured procurement prices and higher yields.
- Loss of Biodiversity: The emphasis on monoculture reduced the genetic diversity of crops. Traditional varieties, often adapted to local agro-climatic conditions and possessing resistance to pests and diseases, were abandoned.
- Nutritional Imbalance: Indigenous crops are often richer in micronutrients than wheat and rice. Their decline contributed to nutritional deficiencies, particularly in rural areas. For example, millets are known for their high iron and calcium content.
- Regional Disparities: The Green Revolution was largely concentrated in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh. Other regions, particularly rain-fed areas, were largely left out, leading to regional disparities in agricultural development.
- Water Depletion: The intensive irrigation required for HYVs led to groundwater depletion in several regions, further impacting the sustainability of agriculture.
Government Measures to Improve Productivity and Diversify Agriculture
Recognizing the negative consequences of the Green Revolution, the government initiated several measures in later years to address the imbalance and improve agricultural productivity.
Early Initiatives (1980s-1990s)
- Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP): Launched in 1952, but gained momentum later, focused on promoting cultivation of local crops in tribal areas.
- National Oilseeds and Vegetable Oil Development Board (NOVDB) (1982): Aimed to increase the production of oilseeds to reduce import dependence.
Post-2000 Initiatives
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM) (2008): While initially focused on increasing rice, wheat, and pulses production, it was later expanded to include coarse grains and oilseeds.
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) (2015): Focused on improving irrigation efficiency and promoting water conservation, addressing a key issue related to HYV cultivation.
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) (2015): Promotes organic farming and traditional farming practices, encouraging the cultivation of indigenous crops.
- Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): Supports the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, diversifying agriculture beyond staple crops.
- National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices, including crop diversification, water use efficiency, and soil health management.
- Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Export Promotion Forum (APEDA): Promotes the export of agricultural and processed food products, including indigenous crops like millets, creating market opportunities.
Recent Focus on Millets – ‘Shree Anna’
In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on promoting millets, with the government declaring them as ‘Shree Anna’ (most nutritious grain). This includes:
- International Year of Millets 2023: India led the initiative to declare 2023 as the International Year of Millets by the United Nations.
- Increased MSP for Millets: The government has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for millets to incentivize their cultivation.
- Promotion through Public Distribution System (PDS): Efforts are being made to include millets in the PDS to improve nutritional security.
| Scheme/Initiative | Focus Area | Year |
|---|---|---|
| NFSM | Rice, Wheat, Pulses, Coarse Grains, Oilseeds | 2008 |
| PMKSY | Irrigation Efficiency, Water Conservation | 2015 |
| PKVY | Organic Farming, Traditional Practices | 2015 |
Conclusion
The Green Revolution, while crucial for food security, had unintended consequences on the diversity of Indian agriculture. The subsequent government initiatives, particularly those focusing on crop diversification, organic farming, and the promotion of millets, represent a positive step towards addressing these imbalances. However, sustained efforts are needed to incentivize farmers to adopt sustainable practices, improve irrigation infrastructure, and create robust market linkages for indigenous crops to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability and nutritional security. A holistic approach that integrates ecological principles with economic viability is essential for a resilient and diverse agricultural system.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.