The Green Revolution in Developing Countries

The Green Revolution

• The Green Revolution was a period of time in the 1960s and 1970s when new farming methods were introduced to developing countries.
• The main goal was to increase food production and reduce hunger and poverty.

Countries Involved

• The Green Revolution was mainly focused on improving agricultural practices in countries such as India, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Key Innovations

• Scientists and researchers developed new varieties of crops that were more resistant to disease and pests, and could produce higher yields.
• They introduced the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to improve soil fertility and control crop damage.

High-Yield Varieties (HYVs)

• One of the most significant developments of the Green Revolution was the introduction of HYVs of wheat and rice.
• HYVs produced much larger harvests than traditional varieties, and farmers were able to grow more food on the same amount of land.
• HYVs were also shorter in height, which made them less likely to fall over during storms or heavy rains.

Impact of the Green Revolution

• Crop yields increased dramatically, and there was a surplus of food for the first time in these countries' histories.
• Hunger and malnutrition were reduced, and the overall health and well-being of the population improved.
• Farmers saw their incomes rise, and many were able to invest in better housing, education, and healthcare for their families.

Test your knowledge about the Green Revolution, a period in the 1960s and 1970s when new farming methods were introduced to developing countries to increase food production and reduce hunger and poverty.