Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India faced severe food shortages in the 1960s, heavily reliant on imports, particularly under the PL-480 program from the United States. The situation was characterized by low agricultural productivity, fragmented land holdings, and a lack of modern farming techniques. However, over the decades, a series of strategic interventions, technological advancements, and policy reforms have dramatically altered this landscape. Today, India is not only self-sufficient in food grains but has also emerged as a net food exporter, contributing significantly to global food security. This transformation is a remarkable story of agricultural progress and policy effectiveness.
The Pre-Green Revolution Era (1960s)
Prior to the 1960s, India’s agricultural output was insufficient to meet the demands of its growing population. Key challenges included:
- Low Yields: Traditional farming methods and a lack of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) resulted in low per-acre productivity.
- Dependence on Monsoons: Rain-fed agriculture made production vulnerable to monsoon failures.
- Fragmented Land Holdings: Small and marginal farmers lacked the resources for investment in modern technologies.
- Inadequate Irrigation: Limited irrigation infrastructure hindered consistent crop production.
This led to chronic food shortages and dependence on imports, notably through the Public Law 480 (PL-480) agreement with the US, which provided food aid in exchange for rupees.
The Green Revolution (1960s-1980s)
The Green Revolution, initiated in the mid-1960s, marked a turning point. Key components included:
- Introduction of HYVs: The introduction of HYVs of wheat (developed by Norman Borlaug) and rice significantly increased yields.
- Increased Irrigation: Expansion of irrigation facilities, particularly through the construction of dams and canals, ensured a reliable water supply.
- Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides: Increased use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides boosted crop production.
- Land Reforms: Though unevenly implemented, land reforms aimed to redistribute land and empower farmers.
States like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh were the primary beneficiaries, witnessing a substantial increase in food grain production. By the 1980s, India had achieved self-sufficiency in food grains.
Post-Liberalization Policies (1991 onwards)
Economic liberalization in 1991 brought further changes to the agricultural sector:
- Reduced Subsidies: Gradual reduction in subsidies on fertilizers and irrigation encouraged efficient resource use.
- Agricultural Credit: Increased access to credit facilitated investment in modern farming techniques.
- Agricultural Research: Continued investment in agricultural research and development led to the development of new crop varieties and technologies.
- Focus on Horticulture and Diversification: Policies promoting horticulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries diversified agricultural production.
The establishment of institutions like the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in 1985 played a crucial role in promoting agricultural exports.
Current Status: Net Food Exporter
India has consistently increased its agricultural exports in recent years. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (as of knowledge cutoff 2023), agricultural exports reached approximately $50.24 billion in FY23. Key exported commodities include:
- Rice
- Wheat
- Spices
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Processed Food Products
Factors contributing to this success include:
- Increased Production: Continued improvements in agricultural productivity.
- Favorable Global Demand: Growing demand for agricultural products in international markets.
- Government Support: Policies promoting agricultural exports, such as export incentives and infrastructure development.
- Improved Supply Chain: Investments in cold storage, transportation, and processing facilities have improved the supply chain.
Conclusion
India’s transformation from a net food importer to a net food exporter is a testament to its agricultural resilience and policy effectiveness. The Green Revolution laid the foundation, while subsequent reforms and investments have sustained this progress. However, challenges remain, including climate change, water scarcity, and the need for sustainable agricultural practices. Continued focus on research, infrastructure development, and farmer welfare will be crucial to ensure long-term food security and maintain India’s position as a leading agricultural exporter.
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.