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GS Paper: Major Crops & Cropping Patterns

  • Basmati Rice Revolution: From Crop to Cuisine

    basmati

    Central Idea

    • While scientific research often seems distant from practical outcomes, some less-celebrated success stories stand out.
    • One such triumph is the transformation of India’s basmati rice industry, driven by scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi.

    About Basmati Rice

    • Basmati rice is a fragrant, long-grain rice variety primarily cultivated in the Indian subcontinent.
    • It is native to the foothills of the Himalayas in India and Pakistan.
    • Basmati rice is characterized by its long, slender grains that elongate further when cooked.
    • Basmati rice is renowned for its natural aromatic fragrance, often described as nutty or floral.
    • There are different Basmati rice varieties, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include Basmati 370, Basmati 386, and Basmati 1121.
    • Basmati rice from certain regions, particularly Indian Basmati, has received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, indicating its specific geographical origin and quality.

    [a] First Revolution

    • Traditional Basmati Varieties: Until the late 1980s, Indian farmers primarily cultivated traditional basmati varieties with tall plants prone to lodging, resulting in low yields and long cultivation periods.
    • Breakthrough with PB-1: In 1989, the IARI introduced Pusa Basmati-1 (PB-1), a crossbreed that combined traditional basmati grain attributes with high-yielding traits. PB-1 was more compact, sturdy, and offered improved yields and maturity times.

    [b] The Second Revolution

    • PB-1121’s Quality: The real revolution came in 2003 with the release of Pusa Basmati-1121 (PB-1121), which offered a different advantage. While yielding slightly less, it boasted exceptional grain quality, with elongated kernels that expanded impressively upon cooking.
    • Market Impact: PB-1121’s grain quality allowed companies like KRBL Ltd. to create a lucrative export brand, making it a global favourite. This variety significantly contributed to India’s basmati rice exports.

    [c] Third Revolution

    • PB-1509: In 2013, the IARI introduced Pusa Basmati-1509 (PB-1509), a high-yielding variety with a shorter maturity period. This innovation allowed farmers to cultivate an extra crop, enhancing their economic prospects.
    • Diverse Crop Combinations: PB-1509’s early maturity has enabled farmers to explore crop diversification, including potatoes, sunflowers, sweet corn, and onions, in addition to basmati rice.

    basmati

    Breeding for Disease Resistance

    • Protecting Gains: IARI scientists have recently focused on preserving yield gains by incorporating disease-resistant genes into their improved basmati varieties.
    • Marker-Assisted Selection: Genes for bacterial leaf blight and rice blast fungal disease resistance have been identified through marker-assisted selection techniques.
    • New Varieties: The release of Pusa Basmati-1885 and Pusa Basmati-1847 in 2021 marked the introduction of varieties with “in-built resistance” against these diseases, reducing the need for chemical crop protection.

    Risk Factors

    • Market Dependency: Basmati rice lacks a minimum support price (MSP) and relies heavily on exports, with limited domestic consumption.
    • Market Vulnerability: Despite its profitability, basmati farming is exposed to market fluctuations and government export policies. Recent restrictions highlight this vulnerability, affecting basmati farmers.

  • Understanding curbs on rice exports

    What’s the news?

    • The Indian Government Implements Rice Export Restrictions to Stabilize Domestic Prices

    Central Idea

    • In a bid to control domestic rice prices and safeguard the country’s food security, the Indian government has implemented a series of measures that impact rice exports and production. These steps include prohibiting the export of white rice, imposing a 20% export duty on par-boiled rice and allowing the export of Basmati rice only for contracts valued at $1,200 per tonne or higher.

    What is the rice production estimate?

    • Rabi season: According to the third Advanced Estimate of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, during the Rabi season 2022-2023, rice production was 13.8% less, at 158.95 lakh tonnes tons, compared to 184.71 lakh tonnes during Rabi 2021-2022.
    • Kharif season: Kharif sowing data show that rice is sown on 384.05 lakh hectares this year as on August 25 compared with 367.83 lakh hectares during the same period last year.
    • Shortfall in the south-west monsoon: In states such as Tamil Nadu, where the Samba crop sowing usually starts in August in the Cauvery delta area, now it will be delayed due to a shortfall in the south-west monsoon.
    • El Niño effects: Trade and rice millers say that new-season crop arrivals will start after the first week of September, and that El Niño effects are likely to impact arrivals to some extent. According to M. Sivanandan, secretary of the Tamil Nadu Rice Millers Association, paddy prices that were ₹27 a kg last year this month is at ₹33 a kg now.

    Rice Exports Overview

    • India’s Global Leadership: India boasts the position of being the world’s largest rice exporter, holding a significant 45% share in the global rice market.
    • Export Growth in 2023: During the months of April and May in 2023, rice exports surged significantly by 21.1% compared to the same period in the preceding fiscal year.
    • Basmati Rice Export Surge: Notably, the month of May saw a remarkable growth of 10.86% in Basmati rice exports as opposed to May 2022.
    • Non-Basmati Exports Rise: Despite the introduction of a 20% export duty on white rice and the prohibition of broken rice exports in September, non-Basmati rice shipments saw a noteworthy increase of 7.5% in exports.

    Trends and Data

    • Steady Non-Basmati Exports: The trend of rising non-Basmati rice exports has remained consistent over the past three years.
    • Basmati Exports Performance: Data from the All-India Rice Exporters’ Association indicates that exports of Basmati rice for the 2022-2023 period surpassed the figures from the previous year.
    • August 17 Exports: Up until August 17, 2023, the total rice exports (excluding broken rice) reached 7.3 million tonnes, showcasing a substantial 15% increase in comparison to the 6.3 million tonnes recorded during the corresponding period in the preceding year.

    Global Challenges and Impact

    • Challenges in Other Nations: Beyond India, several countries are grappling with challenges in rice production and exports.
      • Thailand anticipates a nearly 25% decrease in production in the upcoming year.
      • Myanmar has halted raw rice exports.
      • Adverse crop conditions are reported in Iraq and Iran, affecting their rice crops.

    How Will These Measures Help India?

    • Food Security Assurance: Banning rice exports ensures a steady supply of rice within the country.
    • Price Stability: By restricting rice exports, the government can prevent abrupt spikes in domestic rice prices.
    • Supporting Vulnerable Populations: The ban on exports helps maintain affordable prices for rice.
    • Managing Supply Chain Resilience: Export bans mitigate disruptions in the rice supply chain. This ensures that even in the face of challenges such as adverse weather conditions or logistical issues, the availability of rice in the domestic market remains consistent.
    • Strengthening Local Procurement: By redirecting rice to local markets, the government can enhance its efforts to procure grains for public distribution programs.

    Concerns Raised

    • Export Revenue Impact: Exporters might experience reduced revenue due to limited access to international markets. This can affect their financial viability and potentially lead to job losses within the export sector.
    • Trade Relations: Imposing export bans could strain trade relationships with countries that rely on India as a rice supplier. Diplomatic efforts might be required to manage any potential tensions arising from these restrictions.
    • Long-Term Export Effects: Prolonged export restrictions could result in a loss of market share over time. Competing rice-exporting countries might seize the opportunity to strengthen their presence in international markets, impacting India’s export potential once the ban is lifted.
    • Global Food Price Influence: Reduced rice supply from a major exporter like India could contribute to global food price volatility, affecting the food security of other nations.
    • Efficiency Concerns: In some cases, export bans might lead to inefficiencies in resource allocation. If farmers have surplus produce that cannot be exported, it could result in wastage or inadequate storage facilities.

    What can Indian farmers expect?

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) Increase: The government has raised the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for rice, indicating that farmers can anticipate better returns for their crops. This ensures that the paddy purchased by rice millers will be priced higher than the MSP, providing farmers with improved income.
    • Price Stability for Farmers: Rice prices are not expected to decline for farmers due to the increased MSP and other measures. This stability in prices can contribute to more consistent and predictable incomes for agricultural producers.
    • Controlled Rice Price Climbs: The restrictions on rice exports are designed to prevent steep price increases in the domestic market. Farmers can expect that the government’s efforts to stabilize rice prices will positively impact their ability to fetch reasonable rates for their produce.
    • Better Income Prospects: With a higher benchmark price established by the government, farmers are likely to benefit from improved earnings. This elevation in benchmark prices is expected to translate into better market rates for their rice.
    • Secured Long-Term Availability: While there may be a minor current increase in rice prices for domestic consumers, the long-term availability of rice is secured. Farmers can anticipate a steady demand for their produce without fear of drastic price fluctuations.

    Suggestions provided by exporters

    • Reclassification for Export Decisions: Exporters suggest that the government should classify rice as either common rice or specialty rice for export policy decisions, rather than solely categorizing it as Basmati and non-Basmati. This approach aims to tailor policies to different rice varieties.
    • Geographical Indication Recognition: Trade policy consultant S. Chandrasekaran proposes that rice varieties with Geographical Indication (GI) recognition should be shielded from general market interventions. This measure aims to preserve the unique qualities of these specific rice types.
    • Basmati Rice Export Policy: A Basmati rice exporter, Mohit Gupta, recommends that the government should have allowed Basmati rice exports to continue or set a minimum value for exports, such as $900 per tonne. Gupta argues that such restrictions could impact both exporters and farmers, as demand influences paddy purchases.

    Conclusion

    • The Indian government’s recent measures to control rice exports and stabilize the domestic market exhibit a multifaceted approach. As stakeholders await further developments and clarifications on government policies, the long-term impact on Indian agriculture and rice exports remains an evolving narrative.

  • Gene-Edited Mustard: Less pungent, more useful

    Central Idea

    • Among India’s domestically grown oilseeds, rapeseed-mustard stands out.
    • However, its pungent oil and unpalatable meal have posed challenges for both consumers and livestock.
    • Scientists have undertaken breeding efforts to create Canola-quality (white) mustard with reduced pungency and improved meal quality.

    About Rapeseed-Mustard

    • Rapeseed-Mustard: India’s significant oilseed is rapeseed-mustard, contributing significantly to vegetable oil production and meal availability.
    • Pungency: Mustard seeds contain glucosinolates, compounds that give the oil and meal their pungent flavor and odor.

    Quest for Canola-Quality Mustard

    • Canola-Quality Pursuit: Scientists aimed to breed mustard lines with low glucosinolate content similar to Canola.
    • Reducing Pungency: Efforts to create low-pungency oil and meal have faced challenges due to the necessity of glucosinolates in plant defense.
    • Vulnerability to Pests and Diseases: Canola-quality mustard lines have not been cultivated extensively due to their susceptibility to pests and diseases.

    Role of Gene Editing

    • Innovative Research: Gene editing emerges as a solution to balance glucosinolate levels for improved quality and plant defence.
    • CRISPR/Cas9 Approach: Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing tool to target and modify 10 out of 12 GTR genes in Indian mustard.
    • Achieving Desired Changes: Editing GTR genes led to lower glucosinolate content in seeds while preserving higher levels in leaves and pod walls.

    Benefits of GE Mustard

    • Easy Synthesis: Glucosinolates are synthesized in mustard leaves and pod walls before translocation to seeds.
    • Dual Benefit of Glucosinolates: The study revealed that edited mustard lines with low-seed glucosinolates exhibited improved defence against pests and diseases.

    Distinction between GE and GM

    • GE Mustard: The new mustard lines are genome-edited (GE), not genetically modified (GM).
    • Transgene-Free Solution: Unlike GM crops with foreign genes, GE lines have no foreign DNA and no residual gene-editing tools.

    Regulatory Considerations and Future Prospects

    • Regulation Changes: India’s regulatory environment is shifting, exempting GE plants free of exogenous introduced DNA from stringent approval requirements.
    • Potential Field Trials: Scientists are preparing for open field trials of GE mustard, with expectations to conduct them in the upcoming planting season.
    • Importance of Self-Reliance: With massive edible oil imports, domestic oilseed production through breeding advancements like GE mustard becomes vital for self-reliance.

    Economic Implications and Self-Sufficiency

    • Importance of Oilseeds: India’s substantial edible oil imports highlight the need for boosting domestic oilseed production.
    • Mustard’s Role: Mustard’s high oil content and protein-rich meal position it as a significant oilseed crop.
    • Potential Benefits: Both GE mustard and GM hybrid mustard have the potential to reduce dependence on imported vegetable oils.

    Conclusion

    • The journey of rapeseed mustard from its pungent state to a potentially improved, self-sufficient crop demonstrates the power of innovative breeding techniques.
    • The breakthrough in gene editing opens doors to balancing quality and plant defence.

    Back2Basics: CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing Tool

    crispr mustard

    • CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary technology allowing precise genetic modifications by altering DNA sequences.
    • It’s a cutting-edge tool in genetic manipulation, generating excitement in the scientific community.

    How does it work?

    • CRISPR-Cas9 employs two crucial components for DNA change:
      1. Cas9 enzyme: Functions as molecular scissors, cutting DNA strands at a specific location.
      2. Guide RNA (gRNA): Composed of a short, pre-designed RNA sequence within a longer scaffold. The scaffold guides Cas9 to the right genomic spot.
    • Guide RNA complements a target DNA sequence. It binds only to the specific DNA region, avoiding unintended interactions.
    • Cas9 follows guide RNA to the DNA sequence, creating a cut across both strands.
    • Cell recognizes the DNA damage and initiates repair.
    • Scientists harness repair processes to modify genes in a cell’s genome.

  • Transgenic Crops in India

    transgenic crop

    Central Idea

    • The states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana in India have deferred a proposal to test a new type of transgenic cotton seed.
    • This proposal had been approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the central government.
    • The deferral of the proposal by these states indicates that the broader acceptance of genetically modified crops, including transgenic cotton, remains challenging to achieve in India.

    What are Transgenic Crops?

    • Transgenic crops, also known as genetically modified (GM) crops or genetically engineered (GE) crops, are plants that have been modified through genetic engineering techniques.
    • These techniques involve the introduction of specific genes from one organism into the genetic material of another organism, resulting in the expression of new traits or characteristics in the modified crop.
    • The introduction of transgenic technology allows scientists to selectively transfer desirable genes into crop plants to impart beneficial traits such as:
    1. Pest Resistance: Genes from naturally pest-resistant organisms can be inserted into crops to make them resistant to specific pests or insects.
    2. Disease Resistance: Genes conferring resistance to diseases can be introduced into crops to enhance their ability to withstand infections caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal pathogens.
    3. Herbicide Tolerance: Transgenic crops can be engineered to tolerate specific herbicides, allowing farmers to effectively control weeds without harming the crop.
    4. Improved Nutritional Content: Genetic engineering techniques can be employed to enhance the nutritional profile of crops by increasing the levels of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or proteins.
    5. Abiotic Stress Tolerance: Transgenic crops can be engineered to withstand environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, or extreme temperatures.
    6. Extended Shelf Life: Such crops have extended shelf life or resistance to spoilage, thereby reducing food waste and increasing marketability.

    Transgenic Crops in India

    • Cotton: Cotton is currently the only transgenic crop being commercially cultivated in India. It contains a gene called Cry2Ai, which is believed to confer resistance against the American pink bollworm, a significant pest affecting cotton crops.
    • Other Crops in Trials: Apart from cotton, there are several other crops in various stages of trials using transgenic technology. These include brinjal (eggplant), tomato, maize (corn), and chickpea. These crops are being developed with traits such as insect resistance, disease resistance, and improved nutritional content.
    • Mustard Hybrid DMH-11: The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) approved the environmental release of Mustard hybrid DMH-11 and its parental lines for seed production and testing. This transgenic mustard variety is awaiting final clearance.

    Regulation Process in India

    • Safety Assessments: Transgenic crops go through rigorous safety assessments conducted by committees before they are approved for further testing. These assessments evaluate the potential environmental, health, and socioeconomic impacts of genetically modified crops.
    • Confined Trials: After safety assessments, transgenic crops undergo confined trials in controlled environments. These trials are conducted at agricultural universities or plots controlled by the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR). The aim is to assess the performance, agronomic traits, and potential risks associated with transgenic crops.
    • Open Field Trials: Upon successful confined trials, transgenic crops can proceed to open field trials. These trials are conducted over multiple crop seasons and in different geographical regions to evaluate the performance of the crops under diverse environmental conditions.
    • Comparative Evaluation: Transgenic crops can seek commercial clearance only if they demonstrate superiority over comparable non-GM varieties in terms of desired traits, such as resistance to pests, diseases, or drought, without causing harm to the environment or other cultivated species.

    Issues in Acceptance of Transgenic Crops

    • Public Perception and Opposition: The acceptance of genetically modified crops continues to be elusive in India due to concerns raised by activists, farmers, and consumer groups regarding the safety, environmental impact, and long-term consequences of GM crops.
    • Legal and Regulatory Framework: The litigation in the Supreme Court regarding the approval and cultivation of transgenic crops adds complexity to the regulatory framework. The decision-making process involves multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, scientists, activists, and judicial authorities.
    • State-Level Approvals: Agriculture being a state subject, companies interested in testing transgenic seeds often require approvals from the respective states. Varying attitudes and policies towards GM crops among states can create challenges and inconsistencies in the regulatory process.
    • Ecological Impact and Biodiversity: Critics argue that the release of transgenic crops into the environment may have unintended ecological consequences, such as the potential harm to non-target organisms, disruption of ecosystems, and loss of biodiversity.
    • Socioeconomic Implications: The adoption of transgenic crops may have socioeconomic implications, including concerns about farmer dependency on seed companies, patenting of genetic materials, and potential impacts on traditional farming practices and indigenous seed varieties.

    Way forward

    • Robust Regulation: Strengthen the regulatory framework for transgenic crops to ensure rigorous evaluation, transparent decision-making, and effective monitoring of potential risks to human health, environment, and biodiversity.
    • Public Awareness: Conduct comprehensive campaigns to educate the public about the benefits and safety of transgenic cotton, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting informed decision-making.
    • Stakeholder Engagement: Foster open dialogue among farmers, scientists, policymakers, and consumer groups to address concerns, share information, and build mutual understanding.
    • Environmental Monitoring: Implement long-term monitoring programs to assess the impact of transgenic cotton cultivation on factors such as pest resistance, gene flow, and ecological interactions to ensure sustainability.
    • Farmer Training and Support: Provide training programs and technical assistance to farmers, equipping them with proper cultivation practices and effective management strategies for transgenic cotton, maximizing benefits of improved yields and pest control.
    • Socioeconomic Assessments: Conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate the potential impact of transgenic cotton on farmers’ livelihoods, rural economies, and social well-being, addressing issues of equity, access, and distribution of benefits.
    • Transparent Labelling and Traceability: Implement clear labeling and traceability mechanisms to ensure transparency in marketing and trade of transgenic cotton products, enabling consumers to make informed choices.

    Conclusion

    • The GEAC is exploring options to streamline the regulatory process for GM crops.
    • The proposal to declare certain regions as “notified testing sites” aims to provide a standardized framework for conducting trials and minimize the dependency on state-level approvals.

  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

    textile cotton

    Central Idea

    • Collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and Marple (an AI company) aims to track cotton certification in India.
    • Utilizing satellite images and artificial intelligence, the project focuses on identifying and classifying cotton fields in India.

    What is GOTS?

    • The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a globally recognized standard for the processing and manufacturing of organic textiles.
    • It is a leading certification for organic fibers, including cotton, throughout the entire supply chain, from harvesting of raw materials to labeling of the final product.
    • GOTS ensures that organic textiles meet strict environmental and social criteria, providing credible assurance to consumers.

    Key aspects of GOTS include:

    1. Organic Fiber Criteria: GOTS requires that at least 95% of the fibers in a textile product must be certified organic. It prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and restricts the use of certain synthetic chemicals.
    2. Environmental Criteria: GOTS sets strict environmental criteria for processing and manufacturing organic textiles. It includes guidelines for wastewater treatment, chemical inputs, and energy usage, promoting sustainability and minimizing the environmental impact.
    3. Social Criteria: GOTS also encompasses social criteria, ensuring fair and safe working conditions for employees throughout the supply chain. It includes provisions for workers’ rights, prohibition of forced labor, and compliance with International Labor Organization (ILO) standards.
    4. Supply Chain Traceability: GOTS requires full traceability of the supply chain, from the source of the organic fibres to the final product. This ensures transparency and integrity throughout the production process.
    5. Labelling and Certification: GOTS-certified products are labelled accordingly, allowing consumers to identify and choose organic textiles with confidence. Certification is carried out by independent third-party organizations that assess compliance with GOTS standards.

    What is the new program about?

    • ESA’s programme will train AI models to analyze ESA satellite data and identify cotton fields in India.
    • The project will help GOTS generate accurate estimates of organic cotton yields and incorporate standardized yield metrics.
    • The initiative aims to identify cotton fields meeting predetermined standards and support a seamless transition to organic cultivation.
    • Traditional and ecologically friendly farming practices will be encouraged.

  • ‘HD 3226’ Wheat can beat the heat

    wheat

    Scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have developed a new variety of wheat ‘HD 3226’ that can withstand high temperatures.

    HD 3226 Wheat

    • The wheat, known as “HD 3226”, has been developed specifically for cultivation in the northwest region of India, where temperatures can reach up to 42 degrees Celsius.
    • It took 10 years for ICAR to develop this variety.
    • It has been specifically developed for cultivation in the northwest region of India.

    Features of HD 3226 Wheat

    • More resilient to heat stress: The HD 3226 wheat variety is reportedly more resilient to heat stress than other varieties of wheat.
    • Higher yields: The HD 3226 wheat variety can produce up to 12-15% higher yields in high-temperature conditions.

    Significance

    • The development of this new wheat variety is particularly important given the increasing frequency of heatwaves in the region due to climate change.
    • With rising temperatures, it is becoming more challenging for farmers to grow crops.

    Government approval and availability

    • The HD 3226 wheat variety has now been submitted to the Indian government for approval.
    • Once approved, it is expected to be available to farmers in the coming years.

     

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  • Telangana’s Teja Chilli is hot property in many nations

    chilli

    The burgeoning demand for the popular Teja variety of red chilli, famous for its culinary, medicinal and other wide-ranging uses, in the export market is proving to be a boon for the Telangana Agriculture Market.

    Teja Chilli

    • Teja or S17 is one of the hottest varieties of red chillies produced in India. (GI tag not accorded yet.)
    • The chilli is known and liked across the country for its fierce hot flavor and rich aroma.
    • Southern India is the main region of Teja or S17 red chilli production.
    • It has a capsaicin content of 0.50-0.70% making it more pungent and spicy.
    • The huge demand for Oleoresin, a natural chilli extract, is mainly driving the export of Teja variety to various spice processing industries in several Asian countries.

    Where it is produced?

    • Khammam district is the largest producer of Teja variety of red chilli.
    • It is the leading exporter of the pungent fruit.
    • The Mudigonda-based Oleoresin extraction firm of a Chinese company is engaged in export of the by product to its clients.

    Trade significance of this chilli

    • Teja variety of red chilli is being exported to China, Bangladesh and a few other south Asian countries from Khammam mainly through the Chennai port.
    • The export of Teja variety of red chilli is expected to grow from the present ₹2000 crore per annum to ₹2500 crore next year.

     

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  • MIIRA: India readies plan to popularise millets on world stage

    On the premises of G20, India is planning to propose the launch of a global initiative ‘MIIRA’ to encourage the consumption and production of millets.

    What are Millets?

    millet

    • Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are commonly cultivated and consumed as staple foods in many parts of the world, including Africa and Asia.
    • Millets are highly nutritious, gluten-free, and have a low glycemic index, making them an ideal food for people with various dietary requirements and health conditions.
    • They are cereals such as sorghum (jowar), pearl millet (bajra), foxtail millet (kangni/ Italian millet), little millet (kutki), kodo millet, finger millet (ragi/ mandua), proso millet (cheena/ common millet), barnyard millet (sawa/ sanwa/ jhangora), and brown top millet (korale).

    What is MIIRA?

    • “MIIRA” or Millet International Initiative for Research and Awareness will be aimed at coordinating millet research programmes at the international level.
    • For MIIRA to take off, India will contribute the “seed money” while each G20 member will later have to contribute to its budget in the form of a membership fee.
    • The secretariat will be in Delhi, the sources said, adding that this will, with India being a major producer of millets, ensure a flow of investment from the country’s industry and research bodies.
    • It is in line with the UN declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets and the Centre’s plan to make India a global hub for millets.
    • It is launched keeping in mind the nutritional value and the climate-resilient nature of millets.

    Key objectives

    • MIIRA will aim to connect millet research organisations across the world while also supporting research on millet crops.
    • Besides setting up a web platform to connect researchers and holding international research conferences, the plan is also to promote millet consumption by raising awareness.

    Ecological significance of millets

    • Drought resistance: Millets are drought-resistant crops, which means that they can grow in areas with low rainfall and are less susceptible to the effects of drought. This makes them an ideal crop for farmers in regions that are prone to drought and other climate-related risks.
    • Soil health: Millets have shallow roots and can grow in poor soil, which means that they can be cultivated in marginal lands that are unsuitable for other crops. Millets also improve soil health by enhancing soil organic matter, reducing soil erosion, and improving soil structure and fertility.
    • Low carbon footprint: Millets have a low carbon footprint compared to other crops because they require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides. They are also less energy-intensive to produce and transport.
    • Resilience to climate change: Millets are known for their resilience to climate change and extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts. By promoting the cultivation and consumption of millets, countries can build resilience to the impacts of climate change and ensure food security in the face of these challenges.
    • Biodiversity conservation: Millets are often grown in mixed cropping systems, which promote biodiversity and can help conserve natural resources. The cultivation of millets also supports the conservation of traditional knowledge and local agricultural practices, which can be important for the resilience of rural communities in the face of climate change.

    Recent initiatives to promote Millets

    • Finance Minister described various types of millets as ‘Shree Anna’ in her budget speech.
    • To make India a global hub for Shree Anna, the Indian Institute of Millet Research, Hyderabad will be supported as the Centre of Excellence.
    • In 2018, the Agriculture Ministry declared some millets as ‘Nutri Cereals’ for their “high nutritive value”.

    How popular are millets globally?

    • Now grown in more than 130 countries, millets are the traditional food for more than half a billion people in Asia and Africa.
    • Gobally, jowar is the most widely grown millet crop; its major producers are the US, China, Australia, India, Argentina, Nigeria, and Sudan.
    • Bajra, another major millet crop, is mainly grown in some African countries and India, where millets are mainly a kharif crop.

     

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  • India’s Agricultural Farm Exports data expected to reach a new high

    export

    India’s agricultural exports are poised to scale a new peak in the financial year ending March 31, 2023. But so are imports, bringing down the overall farm trade surplus.

    Agriculture trade in a nutshell

    • India’s agricultural exports are expected to reach a new high in FY 2022-23.
    • The value of farm exports from April-December 2022 was 7.9% higher than the same period of the previous year, totalling $39 billion.
    • Imports of agricultural produce have also grown 15.4% from $24.1 billion in April-December 2021 to $27.8 billion in April-December 2022, resulting in a shrinking of the overall farm trade surplus.
    • As a result, there has been a further shrinking of the surplus on the farm trade account.

    Note: This newscard provides useful insights regarding agricultural exports-import balance. Aspirants are not advised to memorize the numbers but imbibe the trend.

    Drivers of Exports

    The two big contributors to India’s agri-export growth have been rice and sugar.

    (1) Rice

    • India in 2021-22 shipped out an all-time-high 21.21 million tonnes (mt) of rice valued at $9.66 billion.
    • That included 17.26 mt of non-basmati (worth $6.12 billion) and 3.95 mt ($3.54 billion) of basmati rice.
    • In the current fiscal, the growth has been primarily led by basmati rice.
    • Its exports have gone up by 40.3% in value (from $2.38 billion in April-December 2021 to $3.34 billion in April-December 2022).
    • The corresponding increases have been less for non-basmati exports: 3.3% in value ($4.51 billion to $4.66 billion) and 4.6% in quantity (12.60 mt to 13.17 mt).

    (2) Sugars

    • Sugar exports hit a record value of $4.60 billion in 2021-22, as against $2.79 billion, $1.97 billion, $1.36 billion, and $810.90 million in the preceding four fiscals.
    • This fiscal has seen a further surge of 43.6%, from $2.78 billion in April-December 2021 to $3.99 billion in April-December 2022.
    • India exports of rice and sugar are well on course to touch, if not top, $11 billion and $6 billion respectively in 2022-23.

    Key imports

    More than a general export slowdown, it’s the growth in imports that should be cause for concern.  This has come mainly from three commodities-

    (1) Edible oils

    • The first is vegetable oils, whose imports shot up from $11.09 bn in 2020-21 to $18.99 bn in 2021-22.
    • Imports now account for over 60% of the country’s estimated 22.5-23 mt annual oil consumption.

    (2) Cotton

    • India has turned from a net exporter to a net importer of cotton.
    • India’s cotton exports reached an all-time-high of $4.33 bn back in 2011-12.
    • It remained at reasonably high levels until 2013-14 ($3.64 bn), before plunging to $1.62 bn by 2016-17 and $1.06 bn in 2019-20.
    • There was a recovery thereafter to $1.90 bn in 2020-21 and $2.82 bn in 2021-22.
    • But during this fiscal, imports have also soared from $414.59 million to $1.32 billion for the same period.

    Policy implications

    export

    • It can be seen how closely India’s farm performance is linked to international commodity prices.
    • The UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Food Price Index — having a base value of 100 for the 2014-16 period — averaged 122.5 points in 2012-13 and 119.1 points in 2013-14.
    • Those were the years when India’s agri-exports were at $42-43 billion. As the index crashed to 90-95 points in 2015-16 and 2016-17, so did exports to $33-34 billion.
    • The exports recovery in 2020-21 and 2021-22 happened along with — rather, on the back of — rising global prices and the FAO index averaging 102.5 points and 133 points in the two years.

    Inferences from this trend

    Ans. India’s farm exports will slow down in the months ahead.

    • Moreover, this could be accompanied by increased imports, as was the case from 2014-15 to 2017-18.
    • In the event, the focus of policymakers too, may have to shift from being pro-consumer (to the extent of banning/ restricting exports) to pro-producer (providing tariff protection against unbridled imports).

    Way forward

    • The government needs to do something about cotton and edible oils.
    • India’s cotton production has declined from the high of 398 lakh bales in 2013-14 to a 12-year low of 307.05 lakh bales in 2021-22.
    • Clearly, the effects of not allowing new genetic modification (GM) technologies after the first-generation Bt cotton are showing, and impacting exports as well.
    • A proactive approach is required in edible oils as well, where planting of GM hybrid mustard has been permitted with great reluctance — and which is now a matter before the Supreme Court.

     

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  • Pulses: The sustainable crops

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    Context

    • The United Nations General Assembly endorsed the request made by the Government of Burkina Faso regarding the annual observance of World Pulses Day on 10 February at its 73rd session in December 2018, building on the success of the 2016 International Year of Pulses, with Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) playing a leading role in the campaign.

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    sustainable

    Theme for World pulses day 2023

    • The 2023 World Pulses Day’s theme is Pulses for a Sustainable Future, which underlines the significance of pulses in fostering equity and generating chances for livelihood, both of which are essential elements of sustainable agrifood systems.

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    In short: All you need to know about Pulses

    • Major pulses that are grown in India: Tur, urad, moong, masur, peas and gram.
    • Chief Characteristics:
    • Pulses are the major sources of protein in a vegetarian diet.
    • Being leguminous crops, all the above-mentioned pulses (except tur) help in restoring soil fertility by fixing nitrogen from the air.
    • These crops are mostly grown in rotation with other crops.
    • Pulses need less moisture and survive even in dry conditions.
    • Important Producing Areas: The major pulse producing areas are Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Karnataka. It is grown on about 11% of the total sown area in India.
    • India is largest producer and consumer: India is the largest producer as well as consumer of pulses in the world. About 25% of the pulses of the world are produced here.

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    In Depth: Why pulses are important?

    • Pulses withstand drought: Pulses have a lower water footprint than other food crops and are better able to withstand drought and climate-related calamities making them a crucial tool for adjusting to and reducing climate change.
    • Help farmers in water scarce region: They also help farmers in water-scarce regions have a better quality of lives.
    • Can help to increase productivity and livelihood: In a number of farming systems, including agroforestry, intercropping, and integrated farming systems, pulses can help to increase productivity and improve the resilience of agricultural livelihoods.
    • Pulses ensures wholesome food and sustainable use of natural resources: The global pulses industry which deals with the production and trade of pulses also demonstrates to be a beneficial force in ensuring the stability of regional and global supply chains, enabling consumers to access wholesome foods, and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources.
    • Most Valuable Player for Health: Pulse grains have been acknowledged as being a “Most Valuable Player” in preventing obesity, lowering chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, and fostering a varied microbiome in children who are at risk of stunting during the first 1,000 days of their life.
    • Two to three times as much protein as cereals: Pulses are a great choice for populations with diets low in protein because they contain two to three times as much protein as cereals.
    • Pulses provide a number of other assets to the climate change battle: They lessen the requirement for fertiliser throughout the entire crop cycle and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by fixing atmospheric nitrogen.
    • Help to achieve SDG’s: A significant advantage in a changing climate is that many pulse crops are evolved to grow in arid circumstances and can withstand drought stress better than most other crops. Thus, achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2, 3, and 13 which call for improved human health, sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate action.

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    Pulse consumption in India

    • Imports are necessary because of insufficient production: India is currently the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses, but because production is insufficient to meet demand, imports are necessary.
    • India’s demand for pulses has steadily increased: In keeping with the government’s measures to expand pulse production to meet domestic demand, the volume of imports has consistently decreased since 2014-15.
    • National Food Security Mission-Pulses programme: To increase the production of pulses, the Government of India is implementing National Food Security Mission-Pulses programme across 644 districts of 28 States and Union Territories (UTs) of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
    • In Indian diets, pulses are a crucial source of protein: Children, adolescent girls, and pregnant and lactating women receive half of the recommended dietary requirement of protein through the Government of India’s food security programmes.

    Way ahead

    • Pulses to combat malnutrition: Pulses can be included to cereal-based meals to help combat malnutrition. There is evidence to support the fact that people who eat pulses more frequently are more nutrient-secure.
    • For example: During the pandemic, 5 kg of rice/wheat and 1 kg of selected pulses were provided to the poor under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana.
    • PDS can be utilised for better accessibility and affordability: As a matter of policy, the PDS should offer pulses at discounted prices to increase their accessibility and affordability to vulnerable population.
    • For instance: Some states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, have been successful in distributing pulses under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

    Conclusion

    • India is moving closer to Aatmnirbharta on pulses with consistent efforts by the government. It is vital to raise awareness about the benefits of eating pulses that are high in macronutrients for both sustainability and dietary needs.

    Mains question

    Q. India is expanding its pulse production to meet domestic demand. In this light discuss what makes pulses a significant crop?

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