Green Revolution
1 Quick Explanation 1–3 min
The Green Revolution (mid-1960s) raised wheat & rice yields using HYV seeds, fertilisers, irrigation and credit.
It made India self-sufficient in food grains but concentrated in a few regions.
2 Detailed Notes
Definition
What it was
The Green Revolution refers to the large increase in agricultural production (especially wheat & rice) from the mid-1960s, achieved through High Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilisers, expanded irrigation and better credit.
Key points
Ingredients
- HYV seeds (Mexican wheat strains, dwarf rice — IR8).
- Fertilisers and pesticides.
- Irrigation expansion (tube wells, canals).
- Government support: MSP, procurement, credit.
Key idea
Achievements
- Foodgrain output rose sharply; India became self-sufficient (reduced imports/PL-480).
- Higher farmer income, forward linkage to agro-industries.
- Confidence for later self-reliance goals.
Key idea
Limitations
- Regionally concentrated: Punjab, Haryana, Western UP benefited most.
- Crop concentration: mainly wheat & rice; pulses/oilseeds neglected.
- Environmental cost: water overuse, soil degradation.
- Increased inequality between big & small farmers; subsidy burden.
Example
Why it happened then
Food crises (1965–66 droughts, PL-480 dependence) pushed India toward the 'new agricultural strategy' — technology-based, market-oriented agriculture.
In One Minute
Green Revolution (1960s): HYV seeds + fertilisers + irrigation → wheat/rice self-sufficiency. Great for food security, but regional & crop concentration with environmental costs.
Important for Exam
- ⭐ 1-mark: what is Green Revolution.
- ⭐ 3-marks: achievements & limitations.
- ⭐ HYV seeds & inputs — the package.
- ⭐ Regional concentration — which states.
Watch & Learn
Watch on YouTubeIndian economy 1950-1990 - Part 2 - Land Reforms & Green revolution - Class 12th Indian economy.
by Sunil Panda-The Educator
Why watch? Full coverage with positive & negative points.
Open on YouTube Watch on YouTubeIndian economy 1950-1990 - Part 2 - Land Reforms & Green revolution - Class 12th Indian economy.
by Sunil Panda-The Educator
Why watch? Great visual explanation of the package.
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