Green Revolution | Enlite Cafe

What is the Green Revolution?

Definition: The Green Revolution refers to a series of research, development, and technology transfer initiatives that significantly increased agricultural production globally, particularly in developing countries during the 1960s and 1970s.

Green Revolution in India

In India Green Revolution was introduced by M. S. Swaminathan (the Father Green Revolution in India).
In India, it began in the mid-1960s, focusing on the introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of seeds and the use of modern agricultural techniques.
Key Components:
- High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Introduction of high-yielding varieties of crops like wheat and rice.
- Chemical Fertilisers: Extensive use of chemical fertilisers to enhance soil fertility.
- Irrigation: Development of irrigation infrastructure to ensure a reliable water supply.
- Pesticides and Insecticides: Use of pesticides and insecticides to protect crops from pests and diseases.
- Mechanization: Adoption of modern agricultural machinery to increase efficiency.
Impact of Green Revolution :
- Impact on Agriculture
  - Increase in Production: Significant increase in the production of staple crops, especially wheat and rice.
  - Food Security: Contributed to achieving self-sufficiency in food grains and improving food security.
  - Economic Growth: Boosted rural incomes and contributed to the overall economic growth of the country.
  - Employment: Generated employment opportunities in agriculture and related sectors.
- Regional Impact:
  - Regional Disparities: Benefited regions with better irrigation facilities like Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh, leading to regional disparities.
  - Neglect of Other Regions: Less impact on rain-fed and dry regions, which did not have access to irrigation.
Positives Outcomes and Criticisms
- Positive Outcomes:
  - Poverty Reduction: Helped reduce poverty levels in rural areas by increasing agricultural productivity and incomes.
  - Technological Advancement: Promoted the adoption of modern agricultural techniques and technologies.
- Criticisms
  - Environmental Concerns: Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides leads to soil degradation and environmental pollution.