Explain Green Revolution.
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The Green Revolution refers to a series of agricultural innovations and initiatives implemented in the 1960s and 1970s, primarily in developing countries like India and Mexico, aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and food security through the adoption of modern farming techniques and technologies.
Key features of the Green Revolution include:
High-Yielding Variety (HYV) Seeds: The Green Revolution introduced genetically modified seeds, known as high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, which were specifically bred to produce higher yields compared to traditional seed varieties. These seeds were more responsive to fertilizers and irrigation, leading to significant increases in crop productivity.
Irrigation Infrastructure: To support the cultivation of HYV seeds, the Green Revolution promoted the expansion of irrigation infrastructure, including dams, canals, and tube wells. Access to reliable water sources facilitated year-round cultivation and multiple cropping seasons, further boosting agricultural output.
Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides: The Green Revolution advocated for the widespread use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance soil fertility, control pests and diseases, and maximize crop yields. These inputs played a crucial role in maintaining soil health and preventing crop losses due to pests and diseases.
Mechanization and Modern Farming Practices: Modern farming practices, such as mechanization, tractor use, and crop rotation, were promoted as part of the Green Revolution. These techniques increased agricultural efficiency, reduced labor requirements, and enabled farmers to cultivate larger areas of land more effectively.
Government Support and Research Initiatives: Governments, international organizations, and research institutions played a significant role in promoting the Green Revolution through policy support, subsidies, extension services, and research and development initiatives. Investments in agricultural research and technology transfer were crucial for disseminating new farming techniques and inputs to farmers.
The Green Revolution led to significant increases in agricultural productivity, food production, and rural incomes, helping alleviate hunger and poverty in many parts of the world. However, it also raised concerns about environmental sustainability, natural resource depletion, soil degradation, water scarcity, and the social impacts of large-scale commercial farming. Critics argue that the Green Revolution exacerbated income inequalities, displaced small-scale farmers, and contributed to environmental degradation in the long run. Nonetheless, the Green Revolution remains a milestone in agricultural development and a testament to the potential of science and technology to address global food security challenges.