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GS Paper: Agriculture and related issues

  • Centre Discontinues Sale of Rice and Wheat under OMSS

    wheat omss

    Central Idea

    • The Centre has discontinued the sale of rice and wheat from the central pool to State governments under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS).
    • This move is aimed at controlling price inflation and stabilizing food prices, but it may have an impact on states like Karnataka that offer free grains to the poor.

    What is Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)?

    • The OMSS refers to the government’s selling of food grains, such as rice and wheat, in the open market at predetermined prices.
    • The scheme aims to enhance grain supply during the lean season and moderate open market prices.
    • It consists of three components:
    1. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
    2. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction by dedicated movement.
    3. Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.

    Working of OMSS

    • To ensure transparency, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has adopted e-auction as the method for selling food grains under the OMSS (Domestic).
    • Weekly auctions are conducted on the NCDEX platform.
    • State governments and Union Territory Administrations can participate in the e-auction if they require wheat and rice outside TPDS & OWS (Targeted Public Distribution System & Other Welfare Schemes).

    Reasons for Discontinuation of OMSS:

    • Controlling price inflation: Discontinuing OMSS helps regulate the supply of rice and wheat to prevent price hikes.
    • Ensuring price stability: By limiting the availability of grains through OMSS, the government aims to maintain stable market prices.
    • Balancing stock levels: Discontinuation allows for better management of grain stock in the central pool.
    • Streamlining distribution channels: OMSS discontinuation enables a more focused and efficient distribution of grains through targeted welfare schemes.
    • Efficient utilization of resources: By discontinuing OMSS, resources can be allocated more effectively to optimize procurement and distribution efforts.
    • Flexibility in response to market conditions: The discontinuation provides flexibility to adjust grain supply based on market demands and conditions.
    • Promoting market competition: The absence of OMSS encourages the participation of private traders and bulk consumers, fostering a competitive market environment.

    Concerns and Production Challenges

    • Adverse weather conditions: Unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and higher temperatures have posed challenges to wheat production.
    • Lower production and higher prices: The adverse weather conditions may lead to reduced wheat production and subsequent price increases.
    • Rice price fluctuations: Rice prices have already increased by 10% at the mandi level in the last year.
    • Dependence on monsoon rains: Monsoon rains are crucial for rice production, as 80% of the country’s total rice production occurs during the kharif season.
    • Potential impact on food security: Lower production and price fluctuations can affect food security, particularly for vulnerable sections of society.
    • Procurement challenges: Slow wheat procurement and increased prices create difficulties in achieving procurement targets and maintaining stock levels.
    • Potential impact on overall agricultural output: Production challenges in wheat may have a ripple effect on the overall agricultural sector and farm incomes.
    • Need for stabilizing measures: Measures to stabilize supply, improve agricultural practices, and manage weather-related risks are crucial to address these concerns.

    Efforts to Stabilize Supply and Stock Levels

    • Food Corporation of India: FCI plays a vital role in ensuring the availability of food grains at reasonable prices to vulnerable sections of society through the Public Distribution System.
    • Increased Procurement: The government has set a procurement target of 341.5 lakh metric tonnes of wheat for the ongoing Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24.

    Conclusion

    • The Centre’s decision to discontinue the sale of rice and wheat to states under the OMSS aims to control price inflation and stabilize food prices.
    • Exceptions have been made for regions facing specific challenges.
    • The imposition of stock limits and offloading through the OMSS demonstrates the government’s efforts to manage overall food security and prevent hoarding.
    • However, concerns remain regarding lower wheat production due to adverse weather conditions, highlighting the need for measures to stabilize supply and stock levels.

  • India’s Ambitious Grain Storage Plan

    grain storage

    Central Idea

    • India, with its massive population of 1.4 billion people, faces the challenge of ensuring food security for its citizens.
    • To address this issue, the Centre has approved the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to facilitate the implementation of the “world’s largest grain storage plan in the cooperative sector.”
    • This article explores the key aspects of the plan and its potential impact on food security in India.

    Need for Grain Storage Network

    (1) Population vs. Arable Land

    • India constitutes 18% of the global population but has only 11% of the arable land.
    • The country’s vast population necessitates a robust network of food-grain storage facilities.

    (2) Current Storage Gap

    • India’s current foodgrain storage capacity is 145 million metric tonnes (MMT).
    • However, the total food production stands at 311 MMT, resulting in a storage gap of 166 MMT.
    • Insufficient storage facilities often lead to open storage, causing damage to food grains.

    (3) Global Storage Capacities

    • Countries like China, USA, Brazil, Russia, Argentina, Ukraine, France, and Canada have better storage capacities than their foodgrain production.
    • For instance, China, with a foodgrain production of 615 MMT, has a storage capacity of 660 MMT.

    (4) Regional Disparities in India

    • In India, the storage capacity varies across regions.
    • Some southern states have a storage capacity of 90% and above, while northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have capacities below 50%.

    Understanding the ‘World’s Largest Grain Storage Plan’

    (1) Role of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)

    • The Ministry of Cooperation plans to establish a network of integrated grain storage facilities through PACS.
    • PACS are widely spread across India, with over 1,00,000 societies and more than 13 crore farmers as members.
    • Leveraging the existing PACS network is a crucial aspect of the plan.

    (2) IMC Composition

    • The IMC, constituted under the chairmanship of Minister of Cooperation , includes three other ministers and secretaries from relevant ministries.
    • The IMC will modify guidelines and implementation methodologies of schemes to facilitate the storage plan.

    (3) Budgetary Allocation

    • The plan will be implemented through the convergence of 8 existing schemes, eliminating the need for a separate allocation.
    • Schemes under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, and Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution will be utilized.

    Benefits of the Grain Storage Plan

    (1) Multi-Purpose Benefits:

    The plan aims to establish godowns at the PACS level, enabling them to serve multiple functions:

    1. Procurement centres for state agencies and Food Corporation of India (FCI)
    2. Fair Price Shops (FPS)
    3. Custom hiring centres
    4. Common processing units for agricultural produce

    (2) Other benefits

    1. Reduction in post-harvest losses
    2. Decreased foodgrain handling and transportation costs
    3. Enhanced market flexibility for farmers, reducing distress sales

    Key issues addressed

    grain storage food

    • Infrastructure Address: The establishment of godowns at PACS level will address the shortage of agricultural storage infrastructure, increasing India’s foodgrain storage capacity by 700 lakh tonnes.
    • Diversification of PACS: PACS will be empowered to undertake various activities such as procurement centers, fair price shops, and setting up custom hiring centers, enhancing farmer incomes.
    • Reduced Food Grain Wastage: Decentralized storage at PACS level will minimize grain wastage, contributing to improved food security.
    • Prevention of Distress Sales: Farmers can store their produce in PACS facilities and access loans of up to 70%, preventing distress sales and enabling better prices.
    • Cost Reduction: Local storage facilities will significantly reduce transportation costs of food grains to procurement centers and fair-price shops.

    Design and Features of Integrated Storage Facilities

    food grain storage

    (1) Facility Layout

    • Spread over 1 acre of land, the integrated modular PACS will have various components.
    • These include a custom hiring center, a multi-purpose hall, primary processing units, storage sheds, and container storage and silos.

    (2) Financing and Capacity:

    • The cost of establishing the facility is estimated at Rs 2.25 crore.
    • A subsidy of Rs 51 lakh will be provided, with the remaining amount as margin money or a loan.
    • The PACS is projected to earn Rs 45 lakh per year.
    • The hub and spoke model will be implemented, with 55,767 PACS functioning as spokes and 7,233 PACS as hubs.
    • The combined storage capacity of all 63,000 PACS will be 70 million tonnes.

    (3) Technological Advancements:

    • The modern silos will be equipped with computerized real-time monitoring systems.
    • These facilities can be rented out to the FCI and other private agencies.

    Conclusion

    • India’s ambitious grain storage plan in the cooperative sector, facilitated by the IMC, aims to bridge the storage gap and ensure food security for its billion-plus population.
    • By leveraging the vast network of PACS and implementing an integrated storage model, the plan seeks to reduce losses, transportation costs, and distress sales.
    • With proper execution and allocation of resources, this transformative initiative can have a significant and positive impact on India’s food security landscape.

    Back2Basics: Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS)

    • PACS are the lowest tier of the Short-Term Cooperative Credit (STCC) structure in India directly dealing with Farmers.
    • The first PACS was established in 1904.
    • They are headed by the State Cooperative Banks (SCB) at the state level.
    • Credit from the SCBs is transferred to the District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) which operate at the district level.
    • PACS directly work with farmers and play a crucial role in providing short-term lending.
    • PACS provide credit to farmers at the beginning of the cropping cycle to meet their needs for seeds, fertilizers, and other requirements.

  • Achieving Self-Reliance in Fertilizers: A Stepping Stone Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

    Fertilizers

    Central Idea

    • In the wake of global crises, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolute statement, “When the world is in crisis, we must pledge, a pledge that is greater than the crisis itself. We must endeavor to make the 21st century, India’s century and the path to achieving this is self-reliance,” seen as government’s relentless pursuit of a self-reliant India through the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

    Improvements and achievements in the fertilizer sector in the last the four years

    • Increased opening stocks: There has been a significant improvement in the opening stocks of key fertilizers such as DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate), MOP (Muriate of Potash), and other NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizers. For instance, the opening stocks of DAP, MOP, and other NPK fertilizers during Kharif 2023 have seen a substantial increase compared to Kharif 2022.
    • Self-reliance in fertilizer production: The government’s efforts towards achieving self-reliance in the fertilizer sector have yielded positive results. Through measures such as long-term agreements, joint ventures, and diversification of suppliers, India has reduced its dependence on imports and strengthened its domestic fertilizer production capabilities.
    • Enhanced fertilizer supply chain: The Department of Fertilizers has positioned India as a key player in the global fertilizer supply chain. Through strategic partnerships, long-term agreements, and joint ventures with various countries, India has secured a consistent supply of fertilizers.
    • Resource partnerships: The government partnerships include countries such as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Canada, Russia, Morocco, Israel, Senegal, Tunisia, and South Africa. Such collaborations have provided India with access to critical raw materials like rock phosphate and phosphoric acid, strengthening the country’s resource security.
    • Product portfolio diversification: The expansion of NPK complexes, promotion of alternative fertilizers, and the introduction of innovative formulations have provided farmers with more choices to meet their specific crop and soil requirements.
    • Fertilizer industry growth and employment opportunities: The government’s initiatives and investments in the fertilizer sector have contributed to the growth of the industry. The establishment of joint ventures, expansion of domestic operations, and technological advancements have created employment opportunities and fostered economic development in the sector.
    • Commitment to food security: The government’s efforts towards achieving self-reliance in fertilizers align with its commitment to ensuring food security for the citizens of India. By strengthening the fertilizer supply chain, diversifying the product portfolio, and enhancing domestic production capabilities, the government is taking proactive steps to meet the fertilization needs of the agricultural sector.

    Steps for Securing Fertilizer Supplies

    • Long-term agreements: The government has encouraged domestic industries and public sector undertakings to sign long-term agreements for the import of raw materials and intermediates such as ammonia, phosphoric acid, and sulfur.
    • Joint ventures: The government has promoted the establishment of joint ventures with resource-rich nations to secure fertilizer supplies. Joint venture plants have been set up in countries like Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Canada, Russia, Morocco, Israel, Senegal, Tunisia, and South Africa.
    • Strategic partnerships: By collaborating with resource-rich nations, the government has established a reliable channel for procuring raw materials. These partnerships have allowed India to secure a supply of 157 LMT of various fertilizers for three years and 32 LMT for four years.
    • Diversification of suppliers: By expanding the list of countries from which fertilizers are imported, India reduces its dependence on any single nation. This diversification enhances the stability and security of the fertilizer supply chain.
    • Foresightedness in crisis: Despite facing challenges such as scarcity of raw materials, including gas, oil, rock phosphate, and potash, the government managed to forge long-term agreements and joint ventures to ensure uninterrupted access to fertilizers.
    • Strengthening domestic operations: The government has supported the domestic industry in identifying opportunities across the value chain. By strengthening domestic operations, India reduces its reliance on imports and becomes more self-sufficient in fertilizer production.
    • Promotion of alternate fertilizers and natural farming: In addition to securing traditional fertilizers, the government has also focused on promoting alternate fertilizers and natural farming practices. This not only reduces dependence on imported fertilizers but also encourages sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods.

    Encouraging Joint Ventures: A key Strategy by The Government

    • Raw material security: Joint venture plants established through these partnerships have buy-back agreements and assured off-take agreements. This ensures a consistent supply of critical raw materials like rock phosphate and phosphoric acid, which are essential for fertilizer production.
    • Import substitution: By setting up manufacturing facilities in partner countries, Indian industries can produce raw materials locally rather than relying on imports. This not only reduces import costs but also strengthens the domestic manufacturing base and enhances self-reliance.
    • Technology transfer and knowledge sharing: Joint ventures provide opportunities for technology transfer and knowledge sharing between Indian industries and their foreign partners. This enables the adoption of advanced manufacturing processes, improved production techniques, and access to specialized expertise.
    • Market access: Joint ventures often come with market access agreements, allowing Indian industries to access new markets and expand their global reach. This helps in diversifying the customer base and increasing the export potential of Indian-made fertilizers.
    • Strengthening diplomatic ties: Joint ventures foster strong economic ties between India and partner countries. By engaging in collaborative projects, both nations benefit from increased trade, investment, and mutual cooperation.
    • Research and innovation: Joint ventures provide opportunities for joint research and innovation in fertilizer production. This collaboration can lead to the development of new and improved fertilizers, production processes, and technologies.

    Diversifying the Product Portfolio

    • Expansion of NPK complexes: The government has focused on diversifying the product portfolio in the fertilizer sector, particularly by expanding the production of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) complexes. NPK complexes offer a wider range of fertilizers with different nutrient compositions, catering to the specific needs of various crops and soil conditions.
    • Introduction of alternative fertilizers: In line with the goal of diversification, the government has promoted the use of alternative fertilizers. These include organic fertilizers, bio-fertilizers, and bio-stimulants, which are derived from natural sources and have minimal environmental impact.
    • Innovative fertilizer formulations: To meet the diverse needs of different crops and agricultural practices, the government has encouraged the development of innovative fertilizer formulations. These formulations incorporate micronutrients, secondary nutrients, and growth-promoting substances, tailored to specific crop requirements.
    • Value-added fertilizers: The fertilizers are enriched with additional beneficial components such as organic matter, beneficial microbes, or growth regulators. Value-added fertilizers provide added advantages, such as improved soil fertility, enhanced nutrient uptake, and increased crop resilience.
    • Customized fertilizers for different crops: The government has encouraged the development of customized fertilizers tailored to the specific nutrient requirements of different crops. This approach acknowledges that different crops have varying nutrient demands at different growth stages.
    • Fertilizer innovation and research: The government has supported research and innovation in the fertilizer sector to drive product diversification. This includes investments in agricultural research institutions, collaboration with industry experts, and the establishment of research and development centers.

    Conclusion

    • The four years of Modi 2.0 have been instrumental in driving India towards self-reliance, particularly in the crucial fertilizers sector. By diversifying the product portfolio and ensuring ample fertilizer supplies, India has taken significant steps towards achieving food security and fulfilling PM Modi’s vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat

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    Also read:

    Why India needs a fresh Fertilizer Policy?

     

  • Lessons of Indo-US Cooperation in Agriculture

    Central Idea

    • Soviet Union’s role: The Soviet Union contributed to India’s industrialization through capital equipment and technology.
    • United States’ contribution: The United States, along with the Rockefeller and Ford Foundation, supported India’s agricultural development.

    Soviet Union’s Role in Industrialization

    • Collaborations with the Soviet Bloc: Collaborations with the Soviet Bloc led to the establishment of key industrial plants and institutions in India.
    • Examples: Bhilai and Bokaro steel plants (established in the 1950s), Barauni and Koyali refineries, Bharat Heavy Electricals, Heavy Engineering Corporation, Mining & Allied Machinery Corporation, Neyveli Thermal Power Station, Indian Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, and oil prospecting and drilling at Ankleshwar.

    US’s Contribution to Agricultural Development

    agriculture

    • Lesser-known involvement: The United States, along with the Rockefeller and Ford Foundation, played a crucial role in India’s agricultural development during the 1950s and 1960s.
    • Assistance provided: The US supported areas such as agricultural education, research, extension services, and technology transfer.

    US Land-Grant Model

    • Visit to US land-grant universities: In 1950, Major H.S. Sandhu and Chief Secretary A.N. Jha visited US land-grant universities for inspiration.
    • Proposal for integrated agricultural universities: The visit inspired the recommendation to establish integrated agricultural universities in India.
    • Establishment of UP Agricultural University: The UP Agricultural University was established in the Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh and inaugurated by PM Jawaharlal Nehru on November 17, 1960.

    Expansion of Agricultural Universities

    • Publication of blueprint by ICAR: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) published a blueprint titled “Blueprint for a Rural University in India” in the late 1950s.
    • Financial assistance: The United States, through the USAID, provided support for the establishment of agricultural universities in India, starting from the late 1950s.
    • Collaboration with US land-grant institutions: Agricultural universities in India established in the late 1950s and early 1960s were linked with US land-grant institutions for expertise and curriculum design.

    Green Revolution under M.S. Swaminathan

    • Characteristics of traditional varieties: Traditional wheat and rice varieties were tall and prone to lodging when the ear-heads were heavy with well-filled grains.
    • Introduction of semi-dwarf varieties: Semi-dwarf varieties with strong stems that tolerated high fertilizer application were developed in the 1960s.
    • Development and distribution of Norin-10 genes: The Norin-10 dwarfing genes played a significant role in the development of high-yielding wheat varieties in the 1960s.

    Introduction of Seeds to India

    • Correspondence with Vogel and Borlaug: M.S. Swaminathan contacted Orville Vogel and Norman Borlaug in the late 1950s.
    • Arrival of Mexican wheat varieties: Mexican wheat varieties, sent by Borlaug, were first sown in trial fields in the early 1960s and later adopted on a large scale in India.
    • Transition to self-sufficiency: India transitioned from being a wheat importer to achieving self-sufficiency in wheat production in the mid-1960s.

    Motivation for US Assistance

    • Cold War geopolitics and competition: Assistance in agricultural development was motivated by the Cold War geopolitics and the competition between superpowers.
    • Benefits of India’s non-aligned status: India’s non-aligned status allowed for assistance from both superpowers, benefiting agricultural development.

    Socioeconomic Benefits of the Green Revolution:

    • Increased grain yields and productivity: The Green Revolution significantly increased grain yields, ensuring a stable food supply starting from the mid-1960s.
    • Food security and self-sufficiency: Adoption of high-yielding varieties improved food security and reduced dependence on imports in the 1960s and 1970s.
    • Economic growth and poverty reduction: The Green Revolution contributed to economic growth and poverty reduction in rural areas in the 1960s and 1970s.

  • Cabinet nod for ₹1.08 lakh crore kharif Fertilizer Subsidy

    Central Idea

    • The Union Cabinet has approved a fertilizer subsidy of ₹1.08 lakh crore for the ongoing kharif or monsoon season.
    • ₹38,000 crore will be allocated for Nitrogen, phosphatic and potassic (NPK) fertilizers, while ₹70,000 crore will go towards the urea subsidy.

    Fertilizer consumption and subsidies

    • The country’s total consumption of urea is approximately 325 to 350 lakh metric tonnes (LMT).
    • Other fertilizers sold in the country include 100 to 125 LMT of DAP, 100 to 125 LMT of NPK, and 50 to 60 LMT of Muriate of Potash (MoP).
    • The fertilizer subsidy per hectare of land is about ₹8,909, and each farmer receives a subsidy of ₹21,223.
    1. DAP: The actual price of a bag of DAP is ₹4,000, but farmers receive it at a subsidized rate of ₹1,350 per bag, with a subsidy of ₹2,461 per bag.
    2. NPK: This subsidy is ₹1,639 per bag, and the MoP subsidy amounts to ₹734 per bag.
    3. Urea: The Centre spends ₹2,196 per bag of urea.

    Fertilizer Subsidy in India

    • Subsidy as a concept originated during the Green Revolution of the 1970s-80s.
    • Fertiliser subsidy is purchasing by the farmer at a price below MRP (Maximum Retail Price), that is, below the usual demand-and-supply-rate, or regular production and import cost.
    • The rate of subsidy is based on the average price of imported fertilizer in the last six months.

    How is the subsidy paid and who gets it?

    • The subsidy goes to fertiliser companies, although its ultimate beneficiary is the farmer who pays MRPs less than the market-determined rates.
    • From March 2018, a new so-called direct benefit transfer (DBT) system was introduced, wherein subsidy payment to the companies would happen only after actual sales to farmers by retailers.
    • With the DBT system, each retailer — there is over 2.3 lakh of them across India — now has a point-of-sale (PoS) machine linked to the Department of Fertilizers’ e-Urvarak DBT portal.

    How does this system work?

    • A popular example of how this system works is that of the neem-coated urea fertiliser.
    • Its MRP is fixed by the government at Rs. 5922.22 per tonne.
    • The average cost of domestic production is at Rs 17,000 per tonne. The difference is footed by the centre in the form of subsidy.

    What about non-urea fertilizers?

    • The non-urea fertiliser is decontrolled or fixed by the companies.
    • The non- urea fertilizers are further divided into two parts, DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) and MOP (Muriate of Phosphate).
    • The government pays a flat per tonne subsidy to maintain the nutrition content of the soil, and ensure other fertilizers are economical to use.

    Issues with such subsidies

    • Low NUE: Indian soil has low Nitrogen use efficiency, which is the main constituent of Urea.
    • Groundwater pollution: Consequently, excess usage contaminates groundwater.
    • Overuse beyond prescription: The bulk of urea applied to the soil is lost as NH3 (Ammonia) and Nitrogen Oxides. The WHO has prescribed limits been breached by Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.
    • Health hazards: For human beings, “blue baby syndrome” is a common side ailment caused by Nitrate contaminated water.

     

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  • Digitalizing Climate-Smart Agriculture: Framework for G20 Countries

    Agriculture

    Central Idea

    • Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is a part of India’s and the G20 countries’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) vision. It is a complex, mega-scale challenge. The objective of CSA is to optimise a country’s agriculture productivity, resilience, and emissions in response to climate change (long-term, irreversible changes in temperature, precipitation, humidity, pressure, and wind). The G20 can play a key role in addressing the challenge of climate-smart agriculture

    What is Climate-smart agriculture (CSA)?

    • Sustainable agricultural practice: Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) refers to the sustainable agricultural practices that help to increase food production and farmer incomes, improve resilience to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
    • CSA aims to achieve three goals simultaneously: (1) sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and incomes, (2) adapting and building resilience to climate change, and (3) reducing and/or removing greenhouse gas emissions, where possible.
    • It involves a combination of strategies, technologies, and policies that are tailored to the specific needs and conditions of each country’s agriculture sector.

    Challenges for Climate-smart agriculture (CSA)

    • Complex and multi-dimensional: CSA is a complex and multi-dimensional challenge that requires integrated solutions, which may be difficult to implement and require significant investments.
    • Lack of awareness and knowledge: Many farmers are not aware of the benefits of CSA and may not have the knowledge or skills to implement it effectively.
    • Access to finance: Financing for CSA practices may be limited, especially for smallholder farmers who may lack collateral or access to credit.
    • Policy and institutional constraints: Policies and institutions may not be aligned to support the adoption and scaling up of CSA practices.
    • Technical and technological challenges: CSA requires the use of appropriate technologies and practices, which may not be available or accessible in some regions.
    • Climate change impacts: The impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events, may negatively affect the productivity and resilience of agricultural systems, making it difficult to implement CSA practices.
    • Data and information gaps: There may be gaps in data and information on the impacts of CSA practices, making it difficult to assess their effectiveness and scale them up.

    G20’s role in addressing these challenges

    • The G20 must play a key role in addressing the challenge of CSA by adopting the ontological framework, method, and recommendations to set the agenda for research, policy, and practice.
    • The G20 must constitute a committee to formulate a systemic agenda for systematic research, policies, and practices for the digitalisation of CSA in a country using the ontology.
    • The Think20 Engagement Groups provide research and policy advice to the G20 and are ideal forums to develop the ontological framework as the G20 presidency rotates between the member countries each year.
    • The ontology of CSA must be adopted globally as a framework for all G20 countries by adapting the crop and region taxonomies to each country.
    • The G20 committee must help countries collaborate in their efforts, coordinate their policies, and communicate their learnings.
    • The G20 must set the trajectory for the digitalisation of CSA within the G20 and globally and must provide a ‘map’ for the global effort.

    Facts for prelims

    Initiatives

    Description
    National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) A network project launched by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in 2011 to enhance resilience of Indian agriculture to climate change
    Soil Health Card Scheme Launched in 2015 to provide farmers with information on the nutrient status of their soil and recommend appropriate soil health management practices
    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Launched in 2016 to provide farmers with insurance coverage and financial support in the event of crop losses due to adverse weather conditions
    Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana Launched in 2015 to promote organic farming practices in India and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
    National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) Launched in 2010 to promote sustainable agriculture practices in India and enhance agricultural productivity and income of farmers
    Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana Launched in 2007 to support agricultural development in India through the provision of financial assistance for various agricultural activities
    National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Launched in 2016 to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities in India through the use of technology and digital platforms
    Kisan Credit Card Scheme Launched in 1998 to provide farmers with access to affordable credit for agricultural and related activities
    Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana Launched in 2015 to promote efficient use of water resources in agriculture and enhance water use efficiency in farming
    Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) A farming practice that aims to eliminate the use of synthetic inputs in agriculture and promote natural farming techniques

    Recommendations to the G20

    1. Outcome Management:
    • Productivity: Encourage the adoption of sustainable soil management practices, provide subsidies and financial incentives for efficient irrigation techniques, and invest in R&D of improved seed varieties.
    • Resilience: Promote crop diversification, develop a comprehensive risk management strategy, and support agroforestry practices.
    • Emissions Management: Develop and implement policies that promote reduced tillage practices, provide financial incentives and support for the adoption of renewable energy technologies, and develop and implement regulations and standards for sustainable livestock management practices.
    1. Regional Management: Utilise digitalisation tools and technologies to effectively differentiate CSA management across regions in India, gather real-time data and information on regional variations, deliver customised and region-specific extension services to farmers, optimise resource use, and facilitate stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
    2. Crop Management:
    • Differentiation of CSA management across crops: Identify the unique agro-ecological and socioeconomic conditions of each crop and design region-specific policies and programmes that promote CSA practices and technologies.
    • Integration of CSA management across crops: Promote the use of integrated crop management practices that focus on optimising resource use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing productivity across multiple crops.
    • Precision crop management: Adopt precision agriculture techniques that utilise real-time data and information to optimise resource use and increase productivity.
    1. Digital Semiotics Management:
    • Collect and analyse weather data: India has a vast network of weather stations across the country that collect data on temperature, precipitation, humidity, pressure, and wind fields. This data can be used to analyse weather patterns and identify trends that affect crop growth and yield. Machine learning algorithms can be used to process the data and provide real-time insights to farmers on weather forecasts, pest and disease outbreaks, and optimal planting and harvesting times.
    • Develop crop-specific models: India has a diverse range of crops grown across different regions, each with unique requirements for temperature, precipitation, and other climatic factors. Crop-specific models can be developed using data and information on climate
    • Promote precision agriculture: Precision agriculture involves the use of digital technologies such as sensors, drones, and satellite imaging to monitor crop health and growth, and provide real-time recommendations to farmers. By incorporating weather data and information into precision agriculture technologies, farmers can make data-driven decisions that are tailored to the local climatic conditions.
    • Build farmer capacity: To effectively use data and information on climate variability, farmers need to have the skills and knowledge to interpret and apply this information to their farming practices. Training programmes and extension services can be developed to build farmer capacity in using digital tools and interpreting weather data. These programmes can be designed to be accessible and affordable to all farmers, including smallholder farmers.

    Agriculture

    Conclusion

    • The digitalisation of CSA requires a roadmap. Addressing the challenge of CSA is a prerequisite to meeting the challenge of food security, and digitalisation is essential to this task. The G20 must set the trajectory for the digitalisation of CSA within the G20 and globally and must provide a map for the global effort to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals vision.

    Mains Question

    Q. What do you understand by mean Climate-smart agriculture (CSA)? Discuss the challenges for CSA and suggest a way ahead for G20 how it can address these challenges?

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    Idea of Urban Agriculture and Use of Technology

     

  • Overuse of Urea in India and its Implications

    urea

    Central idea

    • Rising urea consumption: The use of urea has continued to increase, leading to a decline in crop yield response to fertiliser use, and an imbalance in the nutrient application.
    • Unbalanced fertilization: The nutrient-based subsidy regime is a failure in promoting balanced fertilization.
    • Several measures failed: The measures introduced by the Indian government to reduce urea consumption, such as neem-coating, smaller bags, and Nano Urea, have not been successful.

    Do You Know?

    The ideal NPK use ratio for the country is 4:2:1, whereas it was 6.5:2.8:1 in 2020-21 and 7.7:3.1:1 in 2021-22. In the recent 2022 kharif season, the ratio got further distorted to 12.8:5.1:1.

    What is Urea?

    • Urea is a commonly used nitrogen-containing fertiliser that provides crops with the necessary nutrients for growth and development.
    • It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water and has a high nitrogen content, with around 46% nitrogen by weight.
    • Urea is made from ammonia and carbon dioxide and is used extensively in agriculture due to its high nitrogen content and affordability.
    • It is a major source of nitrogen for crops, and when applied in the right amounts, it can improve crop yields and increase overall agricultural productivity.

    Urea usage in India

    urea

    Policy moves related to Urea

    The introduction of these measures was aimed at reducing urea consumption in the country.

    • Neem-coated urea: In May 2015, the Indian government mandated the neem-coating of all urea manufactured in the country as well as imported urea to illegal diversion for non-agricultural use.
    • Reduced size: Later, in March 2018, the government replaced 50-kg urea bags with 45-kg bags.
    • Liquid Nano Urea: Recently, in June 2021, the Indian Farmers’ Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) launched a liquid fertiliser called ‘Nano Urea’.

    Ineffectiveness of the above measures

    • Despite the introduction of these measures, urea consumption in the country has not decreased.
    • In fact, sales of urea crossed a record 35.7 million tonnes (mt) in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023.
    • Although consumption dipped in the initial two years after neem-coating was fully enforced, it reversed from 2018-19.

    Failure of the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) regime

    • The government introduced the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) regime in April 2010.
    • The regime fixed a per-kg subsidy for each fertiliser nutrient – nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potash (K), and sulphur (S).
    • The aim was to promote balanced fertilisation and discourage farmers from applying too much urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and muriate of potash (MOP).
    • However, the data shows that nutrient imbalance has worsened, with urea consumption rising by over a third since 2009-10.
    • Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) has declined from 48.2% in 1962-63 to 34.7% in 2018.

    Cost of overdose fertilization

    • Fertilisers are essential for plant growth and grain yield, but the overuse of urea and other fertilisers has led to an imbalance in nutrient application.
    • Crop yield response to fertiliser use has decreased, with the disproportionate application of nitrogen by farmers being a key reason.
    • Recent research has shown that nitrogen use efficiency has declined in India, making it necessary to promote the use of other fertilisers containing different nutrients.

    Way forward

    To address the issue of rising urea consumption, two approaches can be adopted.

    • Disincentivise: The first is to raise prices, but this is not politically feasible.
    • Improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE): One way to achieve this is to make the incorporation of urease and nitrification inhibitors compulsory in urea.

    Some other potential solutions include:

    • Promoting the use of organic fertilisers: Such as compost and manure, can improve soil health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers. This can also reduce the risk of environmental pollution and improve the sustainability of agriculture.
    • Encouraging precision agriculture: Such as soil testing, can help farmers apply fertilisers in the right amounts and at the right time, reducing wastage and increasing nutrient use efficiency.
    • Promoting crop rotation and intercropping: Planting different crops in rotation or together can help maintain soil fertility and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers.
    • Increasing public awareness and education: Educating farmers and the public on the importance of sustainable fertiliser use and the potential risks of overusing synthetic fertilisers can help promote more sustainable agricultural practices.

     

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  • Operation Greens Scheme: TOP Farmers Protests And A Way Ahead

    Central Idea

    • The Operation Greens scheme aimed to develop a value chain for reducing extreme price fluctuations in the three basic vegetables (tomatoes, onions, and potatoes), enhance farmers’ realizations, and improve their share of the consumer rupee. However, the scheme has not been successful in achieving its goals, as seen by the recent protests against low prices by onion and potato farmers.

    What is Operation Greens scheme?

    pib] Operation Greens Scheme - Civilsdaily

    • The Operation Greens scheme is a government initiative launched in the 2018-19 Union budget by the present government.
    • It aims to develop a value chain for reducing extreme price fluctuations in the three basic vegetables, including tomatoes, onions, and potatoes (TOP).
    • The scheme was later expanded to 22 perishable crops in the 2021-22 budget.
    • The government hopes that by developing a sustainable value chain for these perishable commodities, farmers will benefit from better price realization, while consumers will have access to quality products at reasonable prices.

    Aim & Objectives:

    • To enhance value realization of TOP farmers; reduction in post-harvest losses; price stabilization for producer and consumers and increase in food processing capacities and value addition.
    • Price stabilisation for producers and consumers by proper production planning in the TOP clusters and introduction of dual-use varieties.
    • Reducing post-harvest losses by creation of farm gate infrastructure, development of suitable agro-logistics, creation of appropriate storage capacity linking consumption centres.
    • Increasing food processing capacities and value addition in the TOP value chain with firm linkages with production clusters.
    • Setting up a market intelligence network to collect and collate real-time data on demand and supply and price of TOP crops.

    Components:

    • Short-term intervention by way of providing transportation and storage subsidy @ 50% and
    • long-term intervention through value addition projects in identified production clusters with Grant-in-aid @ 35% to 70% of the eligible project cost subject to a maximum of Rs. 50 crore per project

    Limited Success of Operation Greens Scheme

    • Retail tomato prices: Tomato prices in wholesale markets have dropped significantly, but retail prices have not reduced much, indicating limited success.
    • Low Onion price: Onion and potato farmers are protesting against low prices, highlighting the scheme’s lack of effectiveness.
    • For instance: There are protests by Maharashtra’s onion growers against low prices, including relay hunger fasts, stoppage of auctions at major mandis, and a 200-km march to Mumbai. Similarly, potato farmers in Uttar Pradesh have demanded that the government procure their tuber at Rs 10 per kg, as against the ruling Rs 6-6.5/kg market price at Agra.

    Reasons behind its limited success

    • Problem Not with Lack of Storage or Processing Capacity: UP alone has an abundance of cold stores with ample capacity to store perishable goods like potatoes. Maharashtra’s growers have built enough kandha chawls to store onions for 4-6 months. Despite the creation of storage capacity, price volatility persists in milk and cane payment arrears to farmers.
    • Price Volatility: The prices of TOP crops have been volatile, which has adversely affected both farmers and consumers. The prices of these commodities tend to fluctuate sharply due to seasonality, weather conditions, and other factors, resulting in uncertainty and instability in the market.
    • Implementation Issues: The scheme’s implementation has been marred by delays, bureaucratic hurdles, and lack of coordination among various stakeholders, which has resulted in low participation and limited success.
    • Lack of Market Linkages: Another reason for limited success is the lack of market linkages between producers and consumers. The farmers are unable to access markets directly, which leads to dependence on intermediaries who manipulate prices, resulting in price volatility.

    Need for Price or Income Assurance for Farmers

    • Investment: Investment in farm-gate, agri-logistics, and storage-cum-processing infrastructure needs to be encouraged.
    • Assurance: Price or income assurance for farmers is necessary, especially for horticulture, dairy, and poultry producers who do not enjoy minimum support price benefits.
    • Diversification: The future for Indian agriculture lies in crop diversification, which will spur greater consumption of foods incorporating proteins (pulses, milk, eggs, and meat) and micro-nutrients (fruits and vegetables), instead of only calories and carbohydrates.
    • Deficiency price payments: The deficiency price payments or per-hectare direct income transfers could be the way forward.

    Conclusion

    • It is evident that the limited success of the Operation Greens scheme underscores the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by TOP farmers. A more holistic approach is required that prioritizes farmer empowerment, investment in infrastructure, and promotion of crop diversification. By adopting such an approach, the government can not only mitigate the impact of price volatility on farmers but also achieve its broader goal of building a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector that benefits both producers and consumers alike.

    Mains Question

    Q. What is Operation Greens scheme? Analyse its limited success in achieving its objectives and Suggest measures to improve the scheme’s effectiveness.

     

  • Doubling Farmers’ Income: An Assessment

    Doubling

    Central Idea

    • Recently, Prime Minister shared his dream of doubling farmers’ incomes in the year when India completes 75 years of Independence and enters Amrit Kaal. Now that we have entered Amrit Kaal, it is a good time to revisit that dream and see if it has been fulfilled, and if not, how best it can be done. It was a noble dream because unless the incomes of farmers go up, we cannot have sustained high growth of overall GDP.

    What is Doubling Farmers Income scheme?

    • Doubling farmers’ income is a target set by the government of India in February 2016 to be achieved by 2022-23.
    • To promote farmers’ welfare, reduce agrarian distress and bring parity between income of farmers and those working in non-agricultural professions.
    • Doubling Farmers Income can directly have a positive effect on the future of agriculture.

    Doubling

    Doubling Farmers Income: A Noble Vision

    • Improved Farm Machinery and Advanced Technologies: If the income earned by the farmer is doubled, they will have access to better farm machinery and advanced technologies, leading to increased productivity, better quality of seeds, and improved farming techniques.
    • Increased Agricultural Productivity: Doubling farmers’ income means increasing agricultural productivity, which is essential for meeting the growing demand for food in the country.
    • Improved Quality of Crops: Increasing the income of farmers will not only increase agricultural production but also improve the quality of crops, which is crucial for ensuring food security and meeting quality standards for exports.
    • Growth of Indian Economy: Doubling farmers’ income will contribute to the growth of the Indian economy by increasing rural demand for goods and services, creating employment opportunities, and boosting overall economic growth.
    • Reduced Incidents of Farmer Suicides: Financial stress is one of the leading causes of farmer suicides in India. Doubling farmers’ income will provide them with financial security, which will reduce the incidents of farmer suicides and improve their overall well-being.

    Government efforts in this direction

    • Fertilizer subsidy: Fertilizer subsidy budget crosses Rs 2 lakh crore. Even when global prices of urea crossed $1,000/metric tonne, the Indian price of urea remained flat at around $70/tonne. This is perhaps the lowest price in the world.
    • PM-Kisan: The government has allocated Rs 60,000 crore to its flagship PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana for the financial year 2023-24.
    • PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana: Further, many small and marginal farmers also get free ration of at least 5 kg/person/month through the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.
    • Subsidies and crop insurance: There are also subsidies for crop insurance, credit and irrigation (drip). States also dole out power subsidies in abundance, especially on irrigation. Even farm machinery for custom hiring centres is being subsidised by many states.

    Evaluation: Impact of all these policies on farmers’ incomes and on environment

    • Impact of Input Subsidies and Output Trade Policies on Farmers’ Income: While Input subsidies help raise farmers’ incomes by reducing the cost of inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation. Output trade and marketing policies adopted by the government, such as the ban on exports of wheat or the 20% export tax on rice, can suppress farmers’ incomes.
    • Pro-Consumer Approach: The current policy approach is pro-consumer rather than pro-farmer, which is a fundamental problem with our policy framework.
    • Environmental Damage Caused by Subsidized Inputs and Uncontrolled Procurement Policies: The excessive subsidization of inputs like fertilizers and power, coupled with uncontrolled procurement of paddy and wheat in certain states, is causing severe environmental damage. There is a growing need to rationalize these policies.

    Doubling

    Way ahead

    • It is crucial to assess the net impact of input subsidies and output trade policies on farmers’ income to understand where they stand.
    • Realign the support policies keeping in mind environmental outcomes.
    • Millets, pulses, oilseeds, and much of horticulture could perhaps be given carbon credits to incentivise their cultivation. They consume less water and fertilisers. We need to make subsidies/support crop-neutral.
    • It is crucial to adopt policies that are pro-farmer and promote their interests, support income growth, and enhance overall economic growth.
    • Agriculture today needs innovations in technologies, products, institutions and policies for more diversified high-value agriculture that is also planet friendly.

    Notes for Good marks

    Agriculture: Crucial sector of the Indian Economy

    • Employment: Agriculture engages the largest share of the workforce (45.5 per cent in 2021-22 as per PLFS). Agriculture provides direct employment to around 50% of the Indian population, and it indirectly supports the livelihoods of millions more in allied industries such as agro-processing, transportation, and marketing.
    • Food and nutritional security: Agriculture is essential for meeting the food requirements of the country. India is one of the largest producers of rice, wheat, and other cereals, and it is also a significant producer of fruits, vegetables, and spices.
    • Contribution to GDP: Agriculture is a significant contributor to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for around 17% of the country’s total GDP.
    • Foreign exchange earnings: India is a leading exporter of agricultural products such as Basmati rice, spices, tea, and cotton. The export of these products earns valuable foreign exchange for the country.
    • Rural development: Agriculture plays a vital role in the development of rural areas by providing employment and income opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, and improving the standard of living in these areas.
    • Environmental sustainability: Agriculture is closely linked to the environment, and sustainable agricultural practices can help conserve natural resources, reduce carbon emissions, and promote ecological balance.

    Doubling

    Conclusion

    • On the question of doubling farmers’ income, we must realize it is going to take time. It can be done by increasing productivity through better seeds and better irrigation. It will have to be combined with unhindered access to the markets for their produce. Further, diversifying to high-value crops, and even putting solar panels on farmers’ fields as a third crop will be needed. It is only with such a concerted and sustained effort we can double farmers’ incomes.

    Mains Question

    Q. What do you understand by Doubling famers income? Enumerate the efforts taken by the government and what needs to be done to achieve the target?

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  • Agriculture: India Needs Green Revolution 2.0

    Green Revolution

    Central Idea

    • The statement made by the then viceroy, George Curzon in the early 20th century, that the Indian economy, particularly agriculture, is a gamble on the monsoon, may need to be rephrased in modern times. More than the monsoon, it is temperatures that are emerging as a greater source of uncertainty for farmers. Today, what India needs is Green Revolution 2.0.

    The fact today: Rising Temperatures Threaten Winter-Spring Harvest in India

    • Irrigation Prevents Winter-Spring Drought: The country now produces more foodgrains during the winter-spring season than in the post-monsoon season shows how irrigation has helped to prevent drought.
    • Rising Temperatures Threaten Winter-Spring Harvest: However, the rising temperatures in February and March pose a threat to the winter-spring harvest, which was previously considered safe from rainfall-related problems.
    • Shorter Winters, Earlier Summers Increase Crop Risks: Although thunderstorms and hail have always been a risk for winter-spring crops, they are now overshadowed by the risks from shorter winters and earlier summers.

    Heat Waves and wheat yield at present

    • Surge in temperature last year: The impact of temperature surge was seen in March 2022, when the wheat crop had just entered its final grain formation and filling stage. The heat stress led to early grain ripening and reduced yields.
    • Record-high temperatures in February this year: In February of this year, the maximum temperatures recorded were the highest ever seen. This is attributed to the absence of active western disturbances that bring rain and snowfall over the Himalayas, whose cooling effect percolates into the plains.
    • Rising Temperatures in Wheat-Growing Areas: Currently, minimum and maximum temperatures in most wheat-growing areas are ruling 3-5 degrees Celsius above normal. The next couple of weeks or more are going to be crucial. As long as the maximum remains within 35 degrees, there should be no danger of March 2022 repeating itself.

    Green Revolution

    Green Revolution in India

    • In India, the Green Revolution was mainly led by M.S. Swaminathan.
    • In 1961, M.S. Swaminathan invited Norman who suggested a revolution like what has happened in Mexico, Japan, etc in Indian agriculture.
    • Green Revolution was introduced with the Intensive Agriculture District Program (IADP) on an experimental basis in 7 districtin India.
    • In 1965-66 the HYV program was started which is the starting point of the Green Revolution in India.
    • The Green Revolution, spreading over the period from 1967-68 to 1977-78, changed India’s status from a food-deficient country to one of the world’s leading agricultural nations.
    • The Green Revolution resulted in a great increase in production of food grains (especially wheat and rice) due to the introduction into developing countries of new, high-yielding variety seeds, beginning in the mid-20th century.

    Green Revolution

    Why India Need another Green Revolution?

    • Climate change and food insecurity: Climate change poses a significant risk to Indian agriculture. The changing weather patterns, extreme temperatures, and rainfall variations are causing unpredictability in crop production, leading to food insecurity and farmer distress.
    • Declining Soil Fertility: Soil degradation and depletion of nutrients have affected the productivity of the land. It is necessary to develop crops that require less water and fertilizers and are disease-resistant.
    • For example: The development of genetically modified (GM) cotton has led to higher yields, less pesticide use, and improved soil health.
    • Price volatility: In addition to climate change, Indian farmers are also struggling with price volatility, as seen in the recent crash of onion and potato prices. This dual risk of climate and prices requires urgent attention from policymakers, farmers, and scientists to develop resilient crop varieties and effective crop planning and management.
    • Sustainable crop varieties: The need of the hour is to develop crop varieties that can withstand extreme temperature and rainfall variations while yielding more with less water and nutrients.
    • For instance: The use of precision agriculture techniques can help farmers manage their crops efficiently and minimize losses due to climate and price fluctuations.
    • Coordinated efforts: Improving market intelligence and access to markets is also crucial to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce. This will require a coordinated effort from both the government and private sector to create efficient supply chains and distribution networks.
    • Success of the First Green revolution: The success of the first Green Revolution in India was built on scientific research, policy support, and effective implementation. Similarly, addressing the current challenges facing Indian agriculture will require a comprehensive approach that involves research, policy, and implementation at all levels of government and society.

    Prelims Shot: All you need to know about “Wheat”

    • Climate: It is a crop of temperate climate. It can be grown in the drier areas with the help of irrigation.
    • Temperature: 15°-20°C
    • Rainfall: 25-75 cms.
    • Soil: Well drained loamy and clayey soils are ideal.
    • Cultivation: On about 14% of the total arable area of the country.
    • Two important wheat producing zones in the country: The Ganga-Satluj plains in the north-west and the black soil region in the Deccan.
    • In north India: wheat is sown in October –November and harvested in March – April.
    • In south India: It is sown in September-October and harvested in December – January.
    • Uttar Pradesh (highest producer), Punjab (highest yield per hectare), Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Uttarakhand.
    • Important varieties: Sonalika, Kalyan, Sona, Sabarmati, Lerma, Roso, Heera, Shera, Sonara-64.
    • “Wheat takes lesser time in ripening in south India than that in the north because of hotter climatic conditions in the south.”

    Green Revolution

    Conclusion

    • India needs a new agricultural transformation to overcome the challenges it faces. Green Revolution 2.0 can help develop crops that are climate-resilient, require less water and fertilizers, and are disease-resistant. By investing in research and development of new technologies, India can achieve a more sustainable and profitable agriculture sector. Farmers must know what to plant, how to manage their crop at various stages under different stress scenarios, and when to sell. Agriculture for today and tomorrow cannot be the same as it was yesterday.

    Mains Question

    Q. Indian agriculture is under stress due to rising temperatures and climate change. In this light discuss why India need green revolution 2.0?

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