Discuss the geographical conditions favoring the cultivation of wheat or rice in India and describe the steps taken for improving its productivity. (UPSC 1982, 30 Marks, )
भारत में गेहूं या चावल की खेती के लिए अनुकूल भौगोलिक परिस्थितियों पर चर्चा करें और इसकी उत्पादकता में सुधार के लिए उठाए गए कदमों का वर्णन करें।Enroll Now
Introduction
Wheat and rice are staple crops in India, thriving under distinct geographical conditions. Wheat flourishes in the Indo-Gangetic Plains with cool winters and fertile alluvial soil, while rice thrives in regions with high rainfall and clayey soil, like the Eastern and Southern states. To boost productivity, initiatives like the Green Revolution and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana have been pivotal, enhancing irrigation, seed quality, and farming techniques, as noted by agricultural economist M.S. Swaminathan.
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What are the important wheat growing regions in India and why? Are we now growing enough wheat in India to meet our own demand for it? (UPSC 1985, 20 Marks, )
भारत में महत्वपूर्ण गेहूं उगाने वाले क्षेत्र कौन से हैं और क्यों? क्या हम अब भारत में अपनी मांग को पूरा करने के लिए पर्याप्त गेहूं उगा रहे हैं?Enroll Now
Introduction
India, the second-largest wheat producer globally, primarily cultivates wheat in the Indo-Gangetic Plains, encompassing Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. These regions benefit from fertile alluvial soil, favorable climate, and irrigation facilities. According to the Food Corporation of India, wheat production has consistently met domestic demand, with surpluses for export. However, challenges like climate change and resource constraints necessitate sustainable practices to maintain self-sufficiency. M.S. Swaminathan emphasized the need for technological advancements to enhance productivity.
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Introduction
A variant of Basmati rice recently gained attention due to its potential impact on agricultural sustainability and economic growth. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) developed this new strain, which is resistant to bacterial blight and requires less water, aligning with Norman Borlaug's vision of sustainable agriculture. This innovation addresses climate change challenges and aims to enhance food security, reflecting the importance of scientific advancements in traditional crops for global markets.
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Introduction
The Siliguri-Bagdogra belt has witnessed increased man-animal conflict due to the decline of the barbed variety of rice, traditionally a deterrent for elephants. According to the Forest Department, the absence of this crop has led to elephants foraging in human settlements, escalating conflicts. Conservationist R. Sukumar highlights that habitat alteration and food scarcity drive elephants to seek alternative food sources, intensifying human-wildlife interactions in this region.
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What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping system? How crop diversification is helpful to stabilise the yield of the crops in the system? (UPSC 2017, 15 Marks, )
धान और गेहूं की पैदावार में गिरावट के प्रमुख कारण क्या हैं? फसल विविधीकरण फसल प्रणाली में पैदावार को स्थिर करने में कैसे सहायक है?View Answer
Introduction
The declining yield of rice and wheat in India is attributed to factors like soil degradation, water scarcity, and climate change, as noted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Crop diversification, advocated by agronomists like M.S. Swaminathan, enhances soil health and reduces pest cycles, thereby stabilizing yields. By integrating diverse crops, farmers can mitigate risks associated with monoculture, ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity.
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What are the major factors responsible for making rice-wheat system a success? In spite of this success how has this system become bane in India? (UPSC 2020, 15 Marks, )
चावल-गेहूं प्रणाली को सफल बनाने के लिए कौन से प्रमुख कारक जिम्मेदार हैं? इस सफलता के बावजूद यह प्रणाली भारत में अभिशाप कैसे बन गई है?View Answer
Introduction
The rice-wheat system has thrived in India due to the Green Revolution, high-yielding varieties, and government support, contributing to food security. According to Norman Borlaug, these advancements transformed agriculture. However, this success has led to issues like soil degradation, water scarcity, and declining productivity, as noted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The over-reliance on this system has become a bane, threatening sustainable agriculture and necessitating diversification and resource management.
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