Green Revolution and MS Swaminathan Quiz

Study Notes

Father of the Green Revolution in India: Known for his pivotal role in transforming Indian agriculture through scientific innovation and research.
Introduction of High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Introduced new varieties of wheat and rice that significantly boosted crop yields.
Establishment of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): A leading institution for agricultural research and development, fostering innovation and expertise.
Championing Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Emphasized the importance of integrated pest management, crop rotation, and soil conservation.

Low Productivity: Characterized by low yields and dependence on traditional farming techniques.
Food Scarcity: Frequent food shortages and reliance on imports to meet domestic demand.
Limited Infrastructure: Inadequate irrigation facilities, storage, and transportation systems hampered agricultural development.
Poverty and Malnutrition: High levels of poverty and malnutrition due to inadequate food production.

Increased Food Production: To achieve self-sufficiency in food production and meet the growing needs of a rapidly expanding population.
Improved Rural Livelihoods: To enhance the income and living standards of farmers and rural communities.
Economic Growth: To contribute to overall economic growth through increased agricultural productivity.

High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Introduction of new varieties of crops with higher yields and shorter maturity periods.
Increased Fertilizer Use: Extensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance crop growth and minimize pest damage.
Improved Irrigation: Development of irrigation systems to expand the area under cultivation and ensure water supply.
Modern Agricultural Practices: Adoption of scientific practices, such as crop rotation, intercropping, and integrated pest management.

Increased Food Production: Achieved self-sufficiency in food production, significantly reducing reliance on imports.
Improved Rural Livelihoods: Enhanced incomes for farmers and contributed to the overall economic growth of rural areas.
Reduced Poverty and Malnutrition: Contributed to reducing poverty and malnutrition levels in India.

Environmental Degradation: Intensive use of fertilizers and pesticides led to soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.
Dependence on External Inputs: Increased reliance on chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation created a dependence on external inputs.
Economic Inequality: Benefits of the Green Revolution were unevenly distributed, with large farmers benefiting more than smallholders.
Social Impacts: Displacement of small and marginal farmers due to the adoption of mechanized agriculture.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Promoting organic farming, integrated pest management, and water conservation to minimize environmental damage.
Diversification of Crops: Encouraging the cultivation of a wider range of crops, including millets and pulses, to enhance food security and nutritional diversity.
Support for Small Farmers: Implementing policies and programs to support small and marginal farmers, including access to technology, credit, and markets.
Investing in Rural Infrastructure: Focusing on improving rural infrastructure, such as irrigation, storage, and transportation systems, to strengthen the agricultural sector.

Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: Crops whose genetic makeup has been altered through biotechnology to enhance desirable traits, such as resistance to pests, diseases, or herbicides.
Relevance to Green Revolution: Offer potential to further increase crop yields, reduce reliance on chemical inputs, and improve food security.
Controversy: Concerns about potential environmental and health risks associated with GM crops, leading to debates on their safety and long-term impacts.

Millets: Indigenous grains that are drought-tolerant, require less water, and have high nutritional value.
Relevance to Green Revolution: Potential to increase food security in areas with limited water resources and contribute to climate-resilient agriculture.
Future Prospects: Growing interest in promoting millets as a sustainable and nutritious food source, potentially contributing to the "Second Green Revolution."