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Subject: Agriculture

  • The Green Revolution in Maize

    Why in the news? 

    Over the past two decades, India’s maize production has more than tripled, emerging as a private sector-driven green revolution success story. Maize has transitioned from being primarily a feed crop to also serving as a fuel crop.

    What was the Green Revolution?

    • Began in 1968 with the introduction of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, especially for wheat and rice, developed by agronomist Norman Borlaug
    • Institutions like CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) and IARI (Indian Agricultural Research Institute), led by scientists like Norman Borlaug and M S Swaminathan, played a crucial role.
    • The Green Revolution is credited to M.S. Swaminathan, known as the “Father of the Indian Green Revolution”, who introduced Borlaug’s wheat varieties and other technologies.
    • The initiative focused on increasing agricultural productivity through advanced breeding techniques, fertilizers, and irrigation methods.
    • Wheat production increased from 12 million tons in 1964-65 to 20 million tons in 1970-71.India became self-sufficient in food grain production and a major exporter

    Present India’s Maize Production called as a Green Revolution in Maize

    • Significant Production Increase: Over the last two decades, India’s maize production has surged from 11.5 million tonnes in 1999-2000 to over 35 million tonnes in 2023-24, showcasing a remarkable increase in both yield and output.
    • Private Sector Leadership: This growth has been largely driven by the private sector, with more than 80% of the maize area planted with high-yielding hybrids developed by private seed companies, indicating a successful private sector-led green revolution.
    • Diverse Utilization: Maize in India has evolved from being primarily a feed crop for poultry and livestock to also being a vital industrial crop used for starch and ethanol production, reflecting its expanded role in the economy.

    On Starch and Ethanol Production

    • Maize contains 68-72% starch, with significant industrial applications in textiles, paper, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages.
    • Maize is emerging as a key feedstock for ethanol production, especially for blending with petrol.
    • IARI has developed a waxy maize hybrid with high amylopectin content, enhancing its suitability for ethanol production.
    • The new Pusa Waxy Maize Hybrid-1 has 71-72% starch with 68-70% recoverable, increasing ethanol yield per tonne.

    Can India adopt new strategies? (Way forward)

    • India can adopt new strategies through innovative breeding techniques like the doubled haploid (DH) technology used by CIMMYT.
    • The DH facility in Karnataka speeds up the development of genetically pure inbred lines, enhancing the efficiency of maize breeding.
    • IARI’s waxy maize hybrid is ready for field trials and commercial release, potentially boosting ethanol production.
    • Collaboration between public sector institutions and private seed companies can drive the adoption of high-yielding, disease-resistant maize varieties.
    • Private sector-bred hybrids account for over 80% of India’s maize area, indicating strong potential for further growth and innovation in maize production.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Explain various types of revolutions, that took place in Agriculture after Independence in India. How these revolutions have helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Choosing the right track to cut post-harvest losses

    Why in the News? 

    India holds the position of the second-largest agricultural producer globally however, it only accounts for 2.4% of global agricultural exports, ranking eighth worldwide due to the post-harvest loss.

    A closer look at India’s post-harvest loss:

    • Economic Impact: India faces annual post-harvest losses amounting to approximately ₹1,52,790 crore, significantly impacting farmer incomes and the agricultural economy.
    • Perishable Commodities: The biggest losses occur in perishable commodities like livestock produce (22%), fruits (19%), and vegetables (18%). Export processes further add to these losses, particularly at the import-country stage.
    • Supply Chain Inefficiencies: There is Inefficiencies in storage, transportation, and marketing, alongside a lack of assured market connectivity, contribute to significant post-harvest losses. Small and marginal farmers, who make up 86% of the farming community, struggle with economies of scale and market access.

    Initiatives taken by the Railways Department:

    • Truck-on-Train Service: Indian Railways introduced the truck-on-train service, allowing loaded trucks to be transported on railway wagons. This service has been expanded following successful trials with commodities like milk and cattle feed.
    • Parcel Special Trains: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Railways introduced parcel special trains to transport perishables and seeds between producers and markets, ensuring timely delivery and reducing post-harvest losses.
      • The DFI (Doubling farmers’ income) committee recommends streamlining loading and unloading processes to minimize transit times and address staffing shortages through recruitment and training initiatives.
    • Kisan Rail Scheme: It was launched to connect production surplus regions with consumption regions. This scheme facilitates the transportation of perishables (including milk, meat, and fish) more efficiently.
    • Specialized Wagons and Facilities: Investment in specialized wagons for temperature-controlled transport and establishing rail-side facilities for safe cargo handling are essential steps taken by the Railways.

    Way for Untapped Opportunities:

    • Enhanced Environmental Benefits: Rail transport generates up to 80% less carbon dioxide for freight traffic compared to road transport.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: The private sector can play a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening rail infrastructure through public-private partnerships, thereby improving the overall logistics ecosystem for agricultural produce.
    • Budgetary Support and Infrastructure Development: The budgetary allocation for agriculture in 2024 aims to bridge the farm-to-market gap with modern infrastructure and value-addition support.
    • Technology Integration: Incorporating advanced technologies like real-time tracking, temperature monitoring, and automated loading/unloading systems.

    Way forward: 

    • Expand climate-controlled storage facilities and cold storage capacity to accommodate a larger share of agricultural produce.
    • Provide small and marginal farmers access to storage facilities through cooperatives or subsidies.
    • Invest in specialized rail wagons for temperature-controlled transport and establish rail-side cargo handling facilities.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and food processing for small and marginal farmers? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • [pib] National Gopal Ratna Award, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA) 2024 has been awarded by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
      • The awards are conferred annually on National Milk Day, which is celebrated on 26th November.

    What is the National Gopal Ratna Award (NGRA)?

    • NGRA is an initiative under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
    • Objective: The award aims to promote the conservation and development of indigenous bovine breeds, which are crucial for the sustainability of the dairy sector in India.
    • Categories: NGRA is awarded in several categories:
      • Best Dairy farmer rearing indigenous cattle/buffalo breeds.
      • Best Dairy Cooperative Society (DCS)/ Milk Producer Company (MPC)/ Dairy Farmer Producer Organization (FPO).
      • Best Artificial Insemination Technician (AIT).

    Other aspects of the Award

      • Special Recognition: In recent years, a special award category has been included for the North Eastern Region (NER) states to encourage dairy development activities in these regions.
    • Nomination and Recognition: Nominations for the NGRA are submitted online through the National Award portal.
    • Award Details:
    • NGRA 2024 will confer awards in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd ranks, and one Special Award for the NER States in each category.
    • Cash prizes for Best Dairy Farmer and Best DCS/FPO/MPC categories:
      • Rs. 5,00,000/- (1st rank)
      • Rs. 3,00,000/- (2nd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (3rd rank)
      • Rs. 2,00,000/- (Special Award for NER).
    • Best AIT category: Certificate of merit and a memento, without any cash prize.

    Back2Basics: Rashtriya Gokul Mission

    Details
    About
    • Implemented for development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds since December 2014.
    • Continued under the umbrella scheme Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana from 2021 to 2026 with a budget of Rs.2400 crore.
    Nodal Ministry Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
    Objectives
    • Enhance productivity of bovines and increase milk production sustainably using advanced technologies.
    • Propagate the use of high genetic merit bulls for breeding purposes.
    • Enhance artificial insemination coverage by strengthening the breeding network and providing services at farmers’ doorsteps.
    • Promote indigenous cattle & buffalo rearing and conservation in a scientific and holistic manner.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.

  • Integrated Tribal Development Programme by NABARD

    Why in the News?

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is set to launch an integrated tribal development programme in Kulathupuzha grama panchayat, Kollam.

    About Integrated Tribal Development Programme

    • Thanal, an environment organisation, will be the implementing agency of the project that aims to transform livelihoods of tribal families over the next five years.
    • The five-year initiative targets the sustainable livelihood and agricultural enhancement of 413 families residing in eight hamlets.
    • The programme focuses on promoting diverse agricultural crops such as pepper, arecanut, coconut, ginger, Thai ginger, turmeric, and plantain.
    • It encompasses initiatives in goat rearing, poultry, beekeeping, fish farming, and fodder production.
    • The establishment of a Tribal Farmer Producer Company (FPO) is also planned to further economically empower the community.

    Components of the Programme

    • Water Resource Development: Initiatives aimed at enhancing water resources for agricultural purposes.
    • Leadership Training: Training sessions to empower local leaders within the tribal communities.
    • Awareness Creation: Campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices and community development.
    • Sanitation and Hygiene Initiatives: Efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene standards among the tribal families.
    • Marketing and Branding Training: Training programmes to enhance marketing skills and brand awareness among participants.
    • Skill Development Workshops: Workshops focused on enhancing both agricultural and non-agricultural skills among the tribal community.

    About NABARD:

    • It was established on July 12, 1982, based on the recommendation of the Sivaraman Committee to promote sustainable rural development and agricultural growth in India.
    • Aim:  To facilitate credit flow for the promotion and development of agriculture, small-scale industries, cottage and village industries, handicrafts, and other rural crafts.
    • It operates as a statutory body under the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act, 1934, with its headquarters located in Mumbai.
    • It is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the GoI:
      • Representatives from the RBI;
      • Central and state governments;
      • Experts from various fields related to Rural Development and Finance.

     Functions of NABARD:

    • Refinance Support: NABARD provides refinance facilities to banks and financial institutions for agricultural and rural development activities, including crop loans and rural infrastructure projects.
    • Financial Inclusion: It promotes financial inclusion by expanding banking services in rural areas, supporting SHGs, FPOs, and MFIs, and facilitating access to credit for rural communities.
    • Priority Sector Lending: NABARD plays a crucial role in channelling credit to priority sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, and rural infrastructure, in alignment with the Reserve Bank of India’s priority sector lending guidelines.
    • Direct Lending: It extends direct loans to institutions for specific rural development projects, such as agricultural production, rural infrastructure development, and agri-processing units.
    • Scheme Implementation: The organization administers government schemes and funds like Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), Watershed Development Fund (WDF) to finance rural infrastructure projects and watershed development activities.
    • Credit Planning: NABARD collaborates with central and state governments, RBI, and other stakeholders to formulate credit policies and plans for agriculture and rural sectors.
    • Research and Training: NABARD promotes research and development in agriculture, supports capacity building and training programs for rural stakeholders, and facilitates technology transfer initiatives.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following grants/grants direct credit assistance to rural households?

    1. Regional Rural Banks
    2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
    3. Land Development Banks

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Why govt must create a buffer stock of all main food items? 

    Why in the news? 

    Sales of wheat and chana in the open market have effectively curbed soaring inflation in cereals and pulses.

    What is an Open Market?

    • An open market is an economic system with little to no barriers to free-market activity. An open market is characterized by the absence of tariffs, taxes, licensing requirements, subsidies, unionization, and any other regulations or practices that interfere with free-market activity. Open markets may have competitive barriers to entry, but never any regulatory barriers to entry.

    Present State of Inflation:

    • Overall CPI Inflation: Stood at 4.75% year-on-year in May, the lowest in 12 months, but food inflation remained elevated at 8.69%.
    • Cereals and Pulses: Inflation rates were 8.69% for cereals and 17.14% for pulses in May 2024.
    • Impact of Buffer Stocks: Buffer stocks of wheat and chana moderated inflation by ensuring sufficient supply during periods of price volatility.

    How Buffer in Gram(Chana) Helped:

    • NAFED Procurements: Procured large quantities of chana during surplus years at MSP, preventing prices from soaring during crop failures.
    • Distribution: Sold chana through various channels including open market e-auctions and ‘Bharat Dal’ at subsidized rates, stabilizing prices for consumers.
    • Current Stock Levels: Despite recent sales, NAFED still maintains a buffer stock of 4.01 lakh tonnes of chana as of now.

    Significant Role Played by FCI:

    • Wheat Offloading: FCI offloaded a record 100.88 lakh tonnes of wheat in fiscal 2023-24 through open market sales, stabilizing prices and reducing inflation.
    • Retail Price Management: Sales under schemes like ‘Bharat Atta’ ensured wheat and cereal inflation was reduced from peak levels earlier in 2023.
    • Buffer Management: Despite reduced stocks from previous years, FCI’s interventions have been crucial in managing price volatility in essential commodities.

    Need to Adopt Buffer Policy and Better Procurement:

    • Buffer Stock Strategy: Proposal to expand buffer stocks beyond rice, wheat, and select pulses to include oilseeds, vegetables, and even milk powder to mitigate price spikes.
    • Enhanced Procurement: Advocates for increased procurement during surplus years to build adequate buffer stocks for future market stabilization.
    • Policy Impact: Buffer stocking can moderate price volatility influenced by climate change-induced agricultural uncertainties, benefiting both consumers and producers.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhanced Diversification of Buffer Stocks: There is a need to diversify buffer stocks beyond traditional items like rice and wheat to include a broader range of essential commodities such as oilseeds, vegetables, and milk powder. This expansion would help in better managing price spikes and supply shocks across various sectors.
    • Strengthened Procurement Mechanisms: Improving procurement strategies during surplus production years is crucial. This involves proactive measures to purchase larger quantities of commodities at minimum support prices (MSPs), ensuring adequate buffer stocks for future market stabilization and price moderation during scarcity periods.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Food Security Bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with the concerns it has generated in WTO. (UPSC IAS/2013)

  • [pib] Release of Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), has released the ‘Statistical Report on Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors 2024’.

    Data Collection Strategies by NSO:

    • Crops are divided into 12 groups: Cereals, pulses, oilseeds, sugars, fibres, indigo, dyes and tanning material, drugs and narcotics, condiments & spices, fruits & vegetables, other crops, by-products, and kitchen garden.
    • Livestock products are divided into 7 groups: milk, meat, eggs, wool and hair, dung, silk worm cocoons & honey, and increment in livestock.

    About the National Statistical Office (NSO)

      • The NSO was established in 1950 as the Central Statistical Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Planning.
      • It was later renamed the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in 1970 and subsequently became the NSO in 2019.
      • Over the years, it has evolved to become the primary statistical agency in India.
    • Organizational Structure:  The NSO consists of several divisions and units responsible for different statistical functions.

    Key organizations under NSO: Central Statistical Office (CSO)

    • The CSO is a part of the NSO and focuses on macroeconomic statistics and national income accounting.
    • It is responsible for producing key economic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Index of Industrial Production (IIP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Wholesale Price Index (WPI).

    Key Reports released by NSO:

    • Household Consumption Expenditure Survey
    • EnviStats India 2024: Environment Statistics
    • Energy Statistics India 2024
    • National Accounts Statistics 2024
    • Quarterly Estimates of GDP

    Sector-wise share of Value of Output

    Salient Features and Summary Results

    • India’s Agricultural Rankings: India ranks second worldwide in arable land, third in cereal production, and is a leading producer of groundnut, fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, tea, and jute. It is also the largest producer of milk, second in egg production, and fifth in meat production.
    • GVA Contribution: The shares of Crop, Livestock, Forestry and Fishing sub-sectors in value of output of Agriculture and allied sector were 54.3%, 30.9%, 7.9% and 6.9% respectively in 2022-23.
    • Crop Sub-sector Trends: The crop sub-sector remains the largest contributor to the Gross Value of Output (GVO) but has seen its share decline from 62.4% in 2011-12 to 54.3% in 2022-23. Fruits and vegetables’ output has significantly increased, highlighting the growing importance of horticulture.
    • Livestock Sub-sector Growth: The livestock sub-sector has seen an increase in the output of milk, meat, and eggs, indicating a steady growth in this area.
    • Forestry and Fishing: The forestry sector has diversified its output sources, and the fishing and aquaculture sector has seen significant growth, especially in Andhra Pradesh.

    State-wise Details from 2011-12 to 2022-23

    State-wise Value of Output of Crop

    • Highest Output: Uttar Pradesh leading in cereals and sugarcane production.
    • Lowest Output: Lakshadweep:

    State-wise Value of Output of Livestock

    • Highest Output:
      • Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan together accounted for about a quarter of the livestock sub-sector’s output.
    • Lowest Output:
      • Goa: Output remained at ₹0 lakh throughout the period.
    • Key Trends:
      • Madhya Pradesh: Significant increase in livestock output, particularly in milk and meat production.
      • West Bengal: Steady growth in egg production.

    State-wise Value of Output of Forestry and Logging

    Major products: Industrial wood (68%), Fuelwood (20%), and Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) (12%) in 2022-23.

    • Top States in 2022-23:Maharashtra: 16.4% share, Rajasthan: 10.6% share,Uttar Pradesh: 8.7% share, Madhya Pradesh: 7.7% share and Odisha: 5.3% share.

    State-wise Value of Output of Fishing and Aquaculture

    • Highest Output: Andhra Pradesh: Share increased from 17.7% in 2011-12 to almost 40.9% in 2022-23, leading in fish and prawn farming.
    • Lowest Output: Arunachal Pradesh: Output increased from ₹0 lakh (2011-12) to ₹3 lakh (2022-23).

    All India Item-wise Value of Output from Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, and Fishing

    • Cereals: Paddy and wheat are the top contributors to the cereals sub-sector. Paddy output in 2022-23 was ₹220,200 crore, while wheat output was ₹137,300 crore.
    • Pulses: Gram and Arhar together accounted for nearly 59% of the pulses output. Madhya Pradesh led in pulses production with a 22% share in 2022-23.
    • Oilseeds: Groundnut and Rapeseed & Mustard are the highest contributors within the oilseeds group. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the leading states in oilseeds production.
    • Sugar Crops: Uttar Pradesh remains the largest producer of sugarcane, increasing its share from 41% in 2011-12 to 54.5% in 2022-23.
    • Livestock Products: Milk, meat, and eggs are the major contributors within the livestock sub-sector. The share of milk, meat, and eggs in the livestock sub-sector was 66.5%, 23.6%, and 3.7% respectively in 2022-23.
    • Forestry Products: The forestry sector’s output is mainly driven by industrial wood, fuelwood, and NTFP. The share of industrial wood increased to 68% in 2022-23.
    • Fishing and Aquaculture: The fishing and aquaculture sector has seen a significant increase in output, with Andhra Pradesh leading the production. The output of fishing and aquaculture increased from ₹80 thousand crore in 2011-12 to ₹195 thousand crore in 2022-23.

    PYQ:

    [2011] A state in India has the following characteristics:

    1. Its northern part is arid and semiarid.
    2. Its central part produces cotton.
    3. Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.

    Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Gujarat

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Tamil Nadu

  • PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana

    Why in the News?

    The Prime Minister will release the 17th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), amounting to over ₹20,000 crore, for 92.6 million beneficiary farmers across the country.

    About the PM-KISAN Scheme

    • The PM-KISAN is a Central Sector Scheme with 100% funding from the Government of India.
    • It is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare.
    • Launched: In February 2019.
    • Aim: To help procure various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of each crop cycle.
    • Objective: To provide eligible farmers with an annual financial assistance of ₹6,000.
      • This assistance is distributed in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 each every 4 months, via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
    • Beneficiaries:
      • Farmer families that hold cultivable land can apply for the benefits of this plan.
      • Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs) (a farmer who owns cultivable land up to 2 hectare as per land records of the concerned State/UT.).
      • The entire responsibility of identification of beneficiary farmer families rests with the State / UT Governments.

    Do you know?

    The PM-KISAN scheme was first conceived and implemented by the government of Telangana as the Rythu Bandhu scheme.

    Rythu Bandhu Scheme

    • It is also known as the Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme (FISS).
    • It is a welfare programme for farmers started in 2018 by the Telangana government.
    • Under the scheme, the state government provided the 58 lakh farmers in Telangana with ₹5,000 per acre of their land as a farm investment for two crops.
    • There is no ceiling on the number of acres held by a farmer.
    • So, a farmer who owns two acres of land would receive Rs 20,000 a year, whereas a farmer who owns 10 acres would receive Rs 1 lakh a year from the government.
    • This investment is made twice a year, once for the kharif harvest and once for the Rabi harvest.
    • It is the country’s first direct farmer investment support scheme where cash is paid directly to the beneficiary.

    Impact of the Scheme

    • Beneficiaries outreach: Over 11 crore farmers (with more than 3 crore women farmers) across the country have availed of the PM-Kisan scheme, indicating its widespread reach and impact.
    • Financial Support: This financial aid helps farmers meet their agricultural expenses, purchase seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs, and support their families’ livelihoods.
    • Improved Agricultural Practices: This contributes to food security and boosts the agricultural sector’s growth.
    • Poverty Alleviation: The scheme plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty among small and marginal farmers by providing them with a steady source of income just like Universal Basic Income (UBI).
    • Enhanced Livelihoods: PM-Kisan supports farmers’ livelihoods, by providing a safety net during times of agricultural distress or economic uncertainties, ensuring a better quality of life for rural communities.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?

    1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets.
    2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks.
    3. Consumption requirements of farm households.
    4. Post-harvest expenses.
    5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 4 and 5

  • PM-KISAN Scheme: Boosting Farmer Welfare

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister has approved the 17th instalment of the PM Kisan scheme. This move will benefit 9.3 crore farmers, amounting to a distribution of approximately Rs 20,000 crore.

    About the PM-KISAN Scheme

    • The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a Central Sector Scheme with 100% funding from the Government of India.
    • It is being implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare.
    • Launched: In February 2019.
    • Aim: To help procure various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of each crop cycle.
    • Objective: To provide eligible farmers with an annual financial assistance of ₹6,000.
      • This assistance is distributed in three equal instalments of ₹2,000 each every 4 months, via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the bank accounts of beneficiaries.
    • Beneficiaries:
      • Farmer families that hold cultivable land can apply for the benefits of this plan.
      • Small and Marginal Farmers (SMFs) (a farmer who owns cultivable land up to 2 hectares as per land records of the concerned State/UT.).
      • The entire responsibility of identification of beneficiary farmer families rests with the State / UT Governments.

    Significance for Farmers

    • Beneficiaries outreach: Over 11 crore farmers (with more than 3 crore women farmers) across the country have availed of the PM-Kisan scheme, indicating its widespread reach and impact.
    • Financial Support: This financial aid helps farmers meet their agricultural expenses, purchase seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs, and support their families’ livelihoods.
    • Improved Agricultural Practices: This contributes to food security and boosts the agricultural sector’s growth.
    • Poverty Alleviation: The scheme plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty among small and marginal farmers by providing them with a steady source of income just like Universal Basic Income (UBI).
    • Enhanced Livelihoods: PM-Kisan supports farmers’ livelihoods, by providing a safety net during times of agricultural distress or economic uncertainties, ensuring a better quality of life for rural communities.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?

    1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets.
    2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks.
    3. Consumption requirements of farm households.
    4. Post-harvest expenses.
    5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 4 and 5

  • What is Golden Rice?

    Why in the News?

    • The Court of Appeals in the Philippines revoked biosafety permits for GM Golden Rice and BT eggplant, citing safety violations and ordering a halt until issues are resolved.

    Golden Rice and Bt Eggplant in the Philippines 

    What is Golden Rice? 

    • Golden Rice is a variety of rice (Oryza sativa) developed through genetic engineering to produce beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, in the edible parts of the rice.
    • This modification aims to address vitamin A deficiency, particularly in areas where it’s prevalent.
    • The Philippines approved its commercial production in 2021.
    • The Philippines became the first country to officially issue a biosafety permit for commercially propagating golden rice in July 2021.

    Bt Eggplant: Developed by the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB), Bt eggplant is engineered to resist pests, aiming to enhance farmer productivity and reduce environmental impact.

     

    Development of Golden Rice:

    • Research for golden rice began as a Rockefeller Foundation initiative in 1982.
    • Peter Bramley discovered in the 1990s that a single phytoene desaturase gene (bacterial CrtI) could be used to produce lycopene from phytoene in genetically modified tomato.
    • Ingo Potrykus of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and Peter Beyer of the University of Freiburg published the scientific details of golden rice in 2000 after an eight-year project.

    Genetics:

    • Golden rice incorporates Psy and CrtI genes from daffodils and a soil bacterium into the rice genome to enhance beta-carotene production in the endosperm.

    Field Trials and Approvals:

    • The first field trials of golden rice cultivars were conducted by Louisiana State University Agricultural Center in 2004.
    • Additional trials were conducted in the Philippines, Taiwan, and Bangladesh.
    • In 2018, Canada and the United States approved golden rice as safe for consumption.
    • In 2019, the Philippines approved golden rice for use as human food, animal feed, or for processing.

    In the context of India 

    • Currently, there is no cultivation or commercialization of Golden Rice in India. Growing and selling GM brinjal remains banned in India.
    • Recently, the Supreme Court has also intervened on the issue of stubble burning and paddy cultivation in India esp, Punjab and Haryana states.
      • India has approved commercial cultivation of only one GM crop, Bt cotton. No GM food crop has ever been approved for commercial cultivation in the country.
      • We can have some lessons from the Philippines.

    Controversy over its Use

    • Legal challenges emerged in the Philippines in 2023 and 2024, leading to a halt in commercial propagation.
    • Critics have raised concerns about its safety, environmental impact, and efficacy compared to other interventions like supplements and dietary diversification.
    • Greenpeace opposes the use of genetically modified organisms in agriculture and opposes the cultivation of golden rice.
    • Vandana Shiva, an Indian anti-GMO activist, has argued against golden rice, citing potential issues with loss of biodiversity and availability of diverse and nutritionally adequate food.

    Golden Rice 2:

    • In 2005, researchers at Syngenta developed Golden Rice 2, which contains the phytoene synthase (psy) gene from maise combined with the crtl gene from the original golden rice.
    • Golden Rice 2 produces significantly higher levels of carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, compared to the original golden rice.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:

    1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest resistance to a wide variety of pests.
    2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridisation.
    3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    [2021] What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society?

  • Why dal imports have hit a seven-year high?

    Why in the News?

    Due to food inflation during an El Niño year and an election year, the country has lost the self-sufficiency it had achieved in pulses.

    Pulse Production in India:

    • India is the largest producer (25% of global production), consumer (27% of world consumption), and importer (14%) of pulses in the world.
    • They account for 20% of India’s total area under cultivation and provide 7-10% of the total food grains in the country.
    • India’s production has increased by 50% (from 18 million tonnes to 27 million tonnes) up till 2022. However, it has not increased in step with the population growth, per capita availability of pulses has declined from 22.1 kg per person in 1951 to 16.4 kg per person in 2022.
    • Though there is surplus production of Chana, the imperfect substitution among pulses and limited international availability put pressure on the prices of some pulses.

    Recent Decline in Domestic Production:

    • Total Production: Decreased from 27.30 million tonnes (mt) in 2021-22 to 23.44 mt in 2023-24.
    • Chana (Chickpea): Production fell from 13.54 mt in 2021-22 to an estimated 12.16 mt in 2023-24.
    • Arhar/Tur (Pigeon Pea): Output decreased from 4.22 mt in 2021-22 to an estimated 3.34 mt in 2023-24.

    Significance of Pulse Production:

    • Suitable for Drought Areas: Drought-resistant and deep-rooting species of pulses can supply groundwater to companion crops when planted in the intercropping pattern. Locally adapted pulse varieties can enhance production systems in dry environments.
    • Enhances Fertility of Land: The leguminous plants of pulse also help in nitrogen fixation, thus ensuring higher soil fertility.
    • High Nutritional Value: In a country like India, where many people are poor and vegetarian, pulses are an important and affordable source of protein.
    • Low food wastage footprints: Pulses can be stored longer without losing their nutritional value and minimizing loss.

    Imports have hit a seven-year high

    Cause of the Inflation in Pulses

    • Impact of EL Nino: El Niño-induced patchy monsoon and winter rain led to a decline in domestic pulse production from 27.30 million tonnes (mt) in 2021-22 to 23.44 mt in 2023-24, as per the Agriculture Ministry’s estimates.
    • Sharp Output Falls: Both chana and Arhar/tur, the pulses with the highest inflation experienced sharp output falls. Chana production decreased from 13.54 mt in 2021-22 to 12.16 mt in 2023-24, while Arhar/tur production dropped from 4.22 mt to 3.34 mt over the same period.
    • Impact of Irregular Rainfall: Poor crops in regions like Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana were attributed to irregular and deficient rainfall, leading to reduced planting area and lower yields.

    Effects of Inflation :

    • Increased Retail Prices: Significant annual retail inflation, particularly for pulses like Arhar/tur and chana.
    • Higher Import Costs: Surge in imports to meet domestic demand, leading to increased expenditure on foreign pulses.
    • Economic Burden: Higher prices in the open market strain household budgets, especially for low-income families who cannot rely on subsidized distribution for pulses.

    Challenges Ahead :

    • Monsoon Uncertainty: Future prices largely depend on the upcoming southwest monsoon; continued irregular weather patterns could sustain high inflation.
    • Import Dependency: Increased reliance on imports due to insufficient domestic production, especially for yellow/white peas and masoor.
    • Supply Position: Precarious domestic supply with minimal government procurement from recent crops, necessitating higher imports.

    Government initiatives as relief measures: The government has removed tariffs and quantitative restrictions by liberalizing imports on most pulses to boost supply and reduce prices like an extension of duty-free imports of Arhar/tur, urad, masoor, and desi chana till March 31, 2025.

    Conclusion: While the government has taken significant steps to mitigate the impact of high dal prices through import liberalization and policy adjustments, the actual relief to consumers will hinge on the performance of the upcoming monsoon and the global pulse market dynamics.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q Mention the advantages of Cultivation of pulses because of which year 2016 was declared as the International year of Pulses By the United Nations. (UPSC IAS/2017)

     

    Q Food Security Bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Critically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with the concerns it has generated in WTO. (UPSC IAS/2013)

    Prelims PYQs:

    With reference to pulse production in India, consider the following statements:

    1) Black gram can be cultivated as both kharif and rahi crop.

    2) Green gram alone accounts for nearly half of pulse production.

    3) In the last three decades, while the production of Kharif pulses has increased, the production of rabi pulses has decreased.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3