GREEN REVOLUTION IN INDIA

The Green Revolution in India was a major agricultural transformation initiated in the 1960s and 1970s to increase food grain production and ensure food security. The term was first used by William S. Gaud in 1968 to describe the adoption of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of seeds, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and modern irrigation techniques. This movement was driven by the urgent need to overcome recurring food shortages, especially after two severe droughts in the early 1960s, and to reduce dependence on food imports under the US PL-480 programme.

The Green Revolution brought significant changes to Indian agriculture, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. It led to a sharp rise in wheat and rice production, transforming India from a food-deficient country to a self-sufficient one. While it boosted rural incomes and reduced famine-like conditions, it also resulted in regional imbalances, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities, making it a complex legacy in India’s developmental history.

Phases of green revolution

The Green Revolution in India unfolded in two distinct phases, each characterized by the adoption of new agricultural technologies and the expansion of modern farming practices.

First Phase (1966–1980s)

The first phase of the Green Revolution began in 1966 with the introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of wheat and rice, which were initially tested in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Agriculture Minister C. Subramaniam, supported the large-scale adoption of HYV seeds, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides. Improved irrigation infrastructure, including the construction of canals and tube wells, ensured adequate water supply for these high-yielding crops.

Key features of the first phase:

• Focus on wheat and rice cultivation.
• Heavy government support through subsidies for fertilizers and seeds.
• Establishment of agricultural research institutions like the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI).
• Mechanization of farming through the introduction of tractors and threshers.

The first phase was largely concentrated in Punjab and Haryana due to their favorable agro-climatic conditions and strong irrigation networks. The success of the Green Revolution in these states made India self-sufficient in food grain production by the early 1970s, significantly reducing the need for imports.

Second Phase (1980s–1990s)

The second phase of the Green Revolution involved the spread of HYV seeds and modern agricultural techniques to other parts of India, including eastern states like West Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. The focus also shifted from wheat and rice to include other crops like maize, barley, and millet. The introduction of hybrid varieties of vegetables and fruits, along with improved irrigation facilities, further boosted agricultural productivity.

Key developments in the second phase:

• Expansion of Green Revolution technologies beyond Punjab and Haryana.
• Diversification of crops to include pulses, oilseeds, and cash crops.
• Increased use of bio-fertilizers and organic farming methods in some regions.
• Strengthening of agricultural extension services and credit facilities through institutions like NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development).

The second phase highlighted regional disparities in the success of the Green Revolution. While states like Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh experienced significant growth in agricultural output, poorer and rain-fed states like Madhya Pradesh and Odisha struggled to replicate the same success due to inadequate infrastructure and irrigation facilities.

Key Features of the Green Revolution

The Green Revolution in India introduced transformative changes in agricultural practices, leading to a substantial increase in food grain production and a shift towards modern farming techniques. The key features of the Green Revolution were characterized by technological, infrastructural, and policy-driven innovations that aimed to make India self-sufficient in food production.

1. Introduction of High-Yield Variety (HYV) Seeds

A major breakthrough of the Green Revolution was the introduction of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds of wheat and rice developed by agricultural scientists such as Norman Borlaug. These seeds had shorter growth periods, were resistant to diseases, and offered higher productivity compared to traditional varieties. The first HYV wheat seeds were introduced in Punjab and Haryana in 1966, which led to a dramatic increase in wheat production. The success of these seeds was later extended to rice, maize, and millets.

• The wheat variety “Sonora-64” was widely cultivated in Punjab and Haryana.
• The rice variety “IR-8” (miracle rice) was introduced in the eastern states, leading to increased rice production.
• The use of hybrid varieties of pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables expanded during the second phase.

2. Increased Use of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides

The adoption of HYV seeds required a higher input of nutrients and protection from pests and diseases. This led to a sharp increase in the use of chemical fertilizers (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium – NPK) and pesticides.

• The government provided subsidies for fertilizers to encourage their use.
• The rise in pesticide use helped reduce crop losses due to pests and diseases, improving overall yields.
• The increased dependence on chemicals raised concerns about soil degradation and environmental pollution in the long run.

3. Expansion of Irrigation Infrastructure

To support the growth of high-yielding crops, the government invested heavily in expanding irrigation facilities. Large-scale canal construction, the development of tube wells, and the construction of dams ensured a stable and adequate water supply for agriculture.

• Bhakra Nangal Dam became a key source of irrigation for the Green Revolution states.
• Tube wells and borewells were widely adopted in Punjab and Haryana.
• Improved water management increased the cropping intensity and reduced dependence on monsoon rains.

4. Mechanization of Farming

The Green Revolution introduced modern machinery to improve efficiency and reduce labor dependency. The use of tractors, harvesters, and threshers reduced the time and effort required for plowing, sowing, and harvesting.

• Tractors were provided to farmers through government credit schemes.
• Harvesters and threshers reduced post-harvest losses and improved processing speed.
• Mechanization made large-scale farming more efficient but also led to the marginalization of small farmers who could not afford these machines.

5. Government Support

Government policy played a critical role in the success of the Green Revolution. The introduction of a Minimum Support Price (MSP) provided farmers with an assured market and financial stability. The government also facilitated easy access to credit and established procurement systems to ensure that surplus produce was purchased at guaranteed prices.

• MSP was introduced in 1966 to protect farmers from market fluctuations.
• The establishment of Food Corporation of India (FCI) ensured that food grains were stored and distributed efficiently.
• The government provided agricultural loans through institutions like NABARD and regional rural banks.

These key features of the Green Revolution transformed India from a food-deficit country dependent on foreign aid (like PL-480 wheat imports from the US) into a food-surplus nation capable of exporting food grains. However, the Green Revolution also created regional disparities and environmental challenges, which shaped future agricultural policies.

Role of key personalities (PYQ 2013)

The success of the Green Revolution in India was driven by the vision and contributions of key personalities who played a crucial role in introducing modern agricultural practices, developing high-yielding crop varieties, and ensuring the effective implementation of government policies.

M.S. Swaminathan

Dr. M.S. Swaminathan is credited as the architect of the Green Revolution in India for his pioneering work in agricultural research and policy advocacy. As a leading agricultural scientist, he introduced high-yield variety (HYV) seeds and promoted scientific farming methods to increase food production.

• Swaminathan worked closely with the government to facilitate the introduction of HYV wheat and rice seeds in India.
• He focused on integrating HYV seeds with improved irrigation, fertilizers, and mechanization to enhance productivity.
• He played a key role in shaping agricultural policy and advocating for farmer welfare, including the introduction of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system to protect farmers from market fluctuations.
• His efforts helped India achieve self-sufficiency in food production by the early 1970s, ending India’s reliance on food imports under PL-480 aid from the United States.
• Swaminathan’s work in promoting sustainable agriculture and addressing rural poverty laid the foundation for future agricultural policies.

Norman Borlaug

Dr. Norman Borlaug, an American agronomist, is widely known as the “Father of the Green Revolution” for his groundbreaking work in developing high-yielding and disease-resistant wheat varieties.

• Borlaug developed dwarf wheat varieties that were more productive and less prone to lodging (falling due to wind or rain).
• He worked with Indian agricultural scientists and policymakers, including M.S. Swaminathan, to introduce these varieties in India.
• The introduction of Borlaug’s wheat varieties (like Sonora-64) in Punjab and Haryana during the mid-1960s marked the beginning of the Green Revolution in India.
• Borlaug’s wheat varieties produced higher yields with the use of chemical fertilizers and irrigation, revolutionizing Indian agriculture.
• His work not only helped India achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production but also laid the foundation for similar agricultural revolutions in other developing countries.

Other Key Figures

• C. Subramaniam – As the Union Minister of Food and Agriculture (1964–66), he played a vital role in supporting the introduction of HYV seeds and providing government backing for the Green Revolution.
• Indira Gandhi – The then Prime Minister of India provided political support and funding for agricultural modernization, ensuring that policies aligned with the objectives of the Green Revolution.
• R. K. Khanna – As an agricultural scientist, he played a key role in adapting Borlaug’s wheat varieties to Indian conditions and overseeing their large-scale cultivation.

Significance of the Slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”

The slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” was coined by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1965 during the Indo-Pakistan War. It reflects the twin pillars of India’s strength — the soldiers who defend the nation and the farmers who sustain it. The slogan emerged at a time when India was facing both external aggression and internal food scarcity, highlighting the interdependence of national security and agricultural self-sufficiency. 1. Evolution Context of the 1965 War: Shastri gave the slogan to boost the morale of soldiers fighting the Indo-Pakistan War and to inspire farmers to enhance food production amidst shortages. Green Revolution Influence: The slogan gained significance with the Green Revolution (1960s–70s), which transformed India’s agricultural sector, ensuring food security and reducing dependence on imports. Extension by Atal Bihari Vajpayee: In 1998, PM Vajpayee extended the slogan to “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan” to recognize the role of science and technology in strengthening India 2. Significance National Unity: It symbolized the unity between the armed forces and farmers, reinforcing the idea that national security and economic strength are interconnected. Agricultural Self-Sufficiency: It motivated farmers, contributing to the success of the Green Revolution, which improved food security and rural livelihoods. Boost to Military Morale: It became a symbol of respect and encouragement for the armed forces, boosting national pride and defence readiness. Political and Social Mobilization: The slogan became a rallying cry in political and social movements, reinforcing the link between economic development and national security. 3. Criticism and Challenges: Neglect of Farmers’ Welfare: Despite the slogan’s significance, farmers have faced issues like inadequate MSP, loan waivers, and rural distress, raising questions about policy priorities. Military Challenges: While the slogan honoured soldiers, issues like inadequate defence infrastructure and modernization gaps remain unaddressed. Political Rhetoric: The slogan has often been used more as a political tool rather than being backed by concrete policies for farmers and soldiers. “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” remains a powerful symbol of India’s strength and self-reliance, but the challenges faced by farmers and soldiers highlight the gap between rhetoric and reality.

The combined efforts of Swaminathan, Borlaug, and other key figures ensured that the Green Revolution became a transformative movement, leading to significant increases in food production, improved farmer incomes, and enhanced food security in India.

Impact of the Green Revolution

The Green Revolution brought about a dramatic transformation in Indian agriculture, fundamentally altering the country’s food security, rural economy, and agricultural practices. While it achieved remarkable success in increasing food production, it also introduced several socio-economic and environmental challenges.

A. Positive Impact

The Green Revolution had several significant benefits, particularly in addressing India’s food security crisis and enhancing rural prosperity:

• Increase in food grain production – The introduction of high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, coupled with improved irrigation, mechanization, and chemical fertilizers, led to a significant rise in food grain production.
  • Wheat production increased from 10 million tonnes in 1964-65 to over 50 million tonnes by 1980.
  • India became self-sufficient in food grains by the early 1970s, reducing its dependence on imports.
• Reduction in famine and food imports – The increased food production helped in averting famines and ensuring food security.
  • India’s dependency on imports, especially under PL-480 aid from the US, declined significantly.
  • By the late 1970s, India had established food reserves to manage supply shocks.
• Rise in farmers’ incomes and rural prosperity – Farmers in the Green Revolution regions (Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh) benefited from increased productivity and higher market prices.
  • The introduction of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system ensured stable incomes for farmers.
  • Rural prosperity contributed to better living standards and increased rural consumption.
• Growth of agro-based industries and rural employment – Higher agricultural output created demand for fertilizer industries, tractor manufacturing, and other agro-processing industries.
  • Employment opportunities increased in the agricultural and industrial sectors.
  • Development of rural infrastructure (roads, electricity, irrigation) supported the growth of rural economies.

B. Negative Impact

Despite its successes, the Green Revolution also created several long-term challenges, especially concerning environmental sustainability and social inequality:

• Regional disparities – The benefits of the Green Revolution were largely concentrated in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh.
  • Eastern and southern states (like Bihar, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu) lagged behind due to lack of irrigation and infrastructure.
  • The regional imbalance widened rural-urban and interstate inequalities.
• Environmental degradation – Excessive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and groundwater extraction led to environmental stress.
  • Soil degradation and loss of fertility became major issues due to over-reliance on chemical inputs.
  • Over-extraction of groundwater for irrigation caused a groundwater crisis in Punjab and Haryana.
  • Monoculture farming increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
• Decline in traditional farming methods – Traditional seed varieties and indigenous farming practices were abandoned in favor of HYV seeds and chemical-based farming.
  • Loss of crop diversity and agro-biodiversity affected long-term sustainability.
  • Traditional knowledge systems were replaced by market-driven agricultural practices.
• Exploitation of small farmers – The benefits of the Green Revolution were concentrated among large and medium-sized landowners.
  • Small and marginal farmers faced difficulties in accessing HYV seeds, fertilizers, and mechanization.
  • Rising costs of inputs and mechanization pushed small farmers into debt.
  • Increasing landlessness and rural inequality emerged as a consequence of unequal access to resources.
• Health hazards – The overuse of pesticides and chemicals led to health issues among farmers and rural populations.
  • Punjab became known as the “Cancer Belt” due to high rates of pesticide-related cancers.
  • Water contamination from chemical runoff contributed to long-term health issues.

Green Revolution and Agricultural Policies

The success of the Green Revolution was not solely due to technological innovations but was also supported by a robust framework of agricultural policies and institutional support. Land reforms, agricultural credit, price support mechanisms, and research institutions played a critical role in shaping the trajectory of the Green Revolution and ensuring its long-term impact on Indian agriculture.

1. Land Reforms and Agricultural Credit

Land reforms and access to agricultural credit were key policy interventions aimed at creating a more equitable and productive agricultural system.

• Land Reforms – Land reforms were introduced to redistribute land, reduce inequalities in ownership, and empower small and marginal farmers.
  • Abolition of the zamindari system removed intermediaries and allowed direct ownership of land by cultivators.
  • Land ceiling laws imposed upper limits on land ownership and aimed at redistributing surplus land to the landless.
  • Tenancy reforms were introduced to provide security of tenure and fair rent for tenants.
• Role of NABARD and Cooperative Credit – Access to institutional credit was critical for enabling farmers to adopt Green Revolution technologies.
  • The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) was established in 1982 to provide long-term financing for agricultural development.
  • Cooperative credit societies and regional rural banks (RRBs) were established to provide easy access to credit for small and marginal farmers.
  • Nationalization of banks in 1969 ensured that credit was directed toward rural and agricultural sectors.
  • Availability of low-interest loans helped farmers invest in HYV seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, and mechanization.

2. Agricultural Price Policy

To protect farmers from market fluctuations and ensure stable incomes, the government introduced comprehensive price support and procurement mechanisms.

Subsidies and Input Support – The government provided subsidies for fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, and electricity for irrigation.

• Subsidized inputs encouraged farmers to adopt new agricultural technologies.
• However, rising subsidy bills later became a financial burden on the government and led to policy distortions.

Procurement Mechanisms – The Food Corporation of India (FCI) was established in 1965 to procure food grains at MSP and maintain buffer stocks.

• FCI played a key role in ensuring food distribution under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
• This system helped stabilize prices and ensured food availability even during production shortfalls.

3. Role of Institutions

The success of the Green Revolution was underpinned by the contributions of agricultural research and institutional support.

• ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) – Established in 1929, ICAR played a key role in developing and disseminating high-yield variety (HYV) seeds and other agricultural innovations.

  • ICAR’s research efforts focused on improving crop yields, disease resistance, and soil management practices.
  • It partnered with international research institutions (e.g., International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)) to introduce HYVs.

• Agricultural Universities – The establishment of agricultural universities (like Punjab Agricultural University) created a scientific foundation for agricultural education and research.

  • Universities played a major role in training farmers and extension workers on modern agricultural practices.
  • Collaboration between ICAR and agricultural universities ensured that research findings were quickly transferred to farmers.

Second Green Revolution and Sustainable Agriculture

The success of the first Green Revolution in increasing food production also brought several environmental and socio-economic challenges, such as soil degradation, groundwater depletion, and regional disparities. Recognizing these limitations, India has been focusing on a Second Green Revolution aimed at sustainable agricultural practices, greater inclusiveness, and technological modernization. The Second Green Revolution seeks to increase productivity while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

1. Need for Sustainable Farming Practices

The intensive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and groundwater during the first Green Revolution led to several environmental problems:

• Soil degradation – Excessive use of urea and phosphate-based fertilizers reduced soil fertility over time.
• Groundwater depletion – Overextraction of groundwater for irrigation, especially in Punjab and Haryana, caused a significant drop in water tables.
• Loss of biodiversity – Monoculture farming (focus on wheat and rice) reduced crop diversity and made agricultural systems more vulnerable to pests and climate shocks.
• Pesticide contamination – Overuse of pesticides not only harmed the ecosystem but also posed health hazards to farmers and consumers.

To address these challenges, the Second Green Revolution emphasizes shifting toward eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices:

• Crop diversification – Moving beyond wheat and rice to pulses, oilseeds, and millets to promote soil health and reduce reliance on groundwater.
• Natural and organic farming – Encouraging the use of bio-fertilizers, vermicompost, and organic manure to restore soil fertility.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Reducing pesticide use through natural pest control methods and crop rotation.
• Water conservation – Promoting micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) to reduce water wastage.
• Climate-resilient crops – Developing drought-resistant and flood-tolerant crop varieties to adapt to changing climate patterns.

2. Shift Towards Sustainable Agriculture

To make agriculture more sustainable, there is a growing focus on innovative farming techniques and advanced technologies:

• Organic Farming – Sikkim became India’s first fully organic state in 2016. The government introduced the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) to promote organic farming. Organic farming reduces dependence on synthetic inputs and improves soil health over time.
• Precision Agriculture – Use of GPS, drones, and satellite imagery to monitor soil health, water levels, and crop growth. Precision irrigation and fertilizer application based on real-time data improve resource efficiency and crop yields. Smart farming practices reduce costs and improve environmental sustainability.
• Climate-Resilient Crops – Development of heat-tolerant and drought-resistant crop varieties by institutions like ICAR. Promotion of nutri-cereals (millets) like ragi and bajra, which require less water and are rich in nutrients. Efforts to combine traditional knowledge with modern biotechnology to create adaptive agricultural systems.

3. Role of Technology and Digitization

Technology is playing a transformative role in modernizing Indian agriculture and making it more resilient to external shocks:

• E-NAM (National Agriculture Market) – Launched in 2016, E-NAM is an online trading platform that connects farmers with buyers directly, improving price realization. It reduces the role of middlemen and ensures better price discovery.
• Digital Land Records and Farmer Databases – Initiatives like Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) aim to digitize land records and reduce land disputes. Farmer databases help in targeted delivery of subsidies and extension services.
• Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data – AI-based weather prediction and pest control help farmers make informed decisions. Data-driven advisory services improve productivity and reduce input costs.
• Mobile-based Extension Services – Apps and SMS-based advisory services provide real-time guidance on weather, crop diseases, and market trends. Platforms like Kisan Suvidha and Pusa Krishi empower farmers with information and market linkages.

4. Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite these positive steps, the Second Green Revolution faces several challenges:

• Small and marginal farmers often lack access to technology and credit.
• Land fragmentation and tenure insecurity remain barriers to modernization.
• Climate change is increasing the frequency of droughts, floods, and extreme weather events, threatening agricultural stability.
• Market volatility and lack of remunerative prices continue to impact farmers’ incomes.

The Second Green Revolution, therefore, needs to focus on balancing productivity with sustainability, ensuring that technological benefits reach small and marginal farmers, and promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices. A shift from input-intensive to knowledge-intensive farming, supported by strong institutional frameworks and farmer-centric policies, will be crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural growth.

Conclusion

The Green Revolution was a turning point in India’s agricultural journey, ensuring food self-sufficiency and averting famine. However, its uneven benefits and environmental costs highlighted the need for a more balanced approach. Going forward, India must adopt a second, more sustainable Green Revolution—one that integrates technology, promotes ecological practices like organic farming and crop diversification, and ensures inclusion of small and marginal farmers.

Strengthening rural infrastructure, improving access to credit and markets, and shifting towards knowledge-intensive farming will be essential for building a resilient, productive, and equitable agricultural future.

Related FAQs of GREEN REVOLUTION IN INDIA

1. What exactly was the Green Revolution in India, and why was it needed?

The Green Revolution was a movement launched in the 1960s to boost food grain production using high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, and mechanization. It was needed to tackle food shortages, reduce dependency on imports (like PL-480 wheat from the US), and achieve self-sufficiency in food production.

2. Who were the key people behind India’s Green Revolution?

Dr. M.S. Swaminathan (the architect of India’s Green Revolution) and Dr. Norman Borlaug (who developed HYV wheat varieties) were pivotal. Leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri, C. Subramaniam, and Indira Gandhi supported it politically and administratively.

3. What were the main benefits of the Green Revolution?

It increased food grain production, made India self-reliant, and improved rural incomes, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. It also helped avoid famines and reduced dependency on food imports, supporting agro-based industries and rural development.

4. Did the Green Revolution have any negative effects?

Yes. It led to regional imbalances, environmental damage (like groundwater depletion and soil degradation), overuse of chemicals, and increased inequality—with large farmers benefiting more than small ones. Some areas became over-reliant on just wheat and rice, reducing biodiversity.

5. What is the Second Green Revolution, and how is it different?

The Second Green Revolution focuses on sustainable farming, organic agriculture, climate-resilient crops, and technology-driven solutions like AI and precision farming. It aims to address the shortcomings of the first Green Revolution while making agriculture eco-friendly and inclusive.