What is Yellow Revolution?
VerifiedAnswer: Production of Oil Seeds
Explanation:
The Yellow Revolution refers to India's remarkable agricultural transformation focused on increasing the production and productivity of oilseeds. This revolution aimed to make India self-sufficient in edible oils and reduce the country's dependence on expensive oil imports.
Launched in the 1980s under the guidance of agricultural scientist Sam Pitroda, this initiative focused on crops like mustard, sunflower, safflower, groundnut, sesame, and soybean. The term "Yellow" comes from the characteristic golden-yellow color of many oilseed flowers and the extracted oils.
The revolution involved several key strategies including the development of high-yielding varieties of oilseeds, improved farming techniques, better irrigation facilities, and the introduction of modern agricultural machinery. Farmers were provided with quality seeds, fertilizers, and technical guidance to maximize their crop yields.
The impact of the Yellow Revolution was significant. India's oilseed production increased from 12.6 million tonnes in 1987-88 to over 30 million tonnes by the 2000s. Major oilseed-producing states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra became key contributors to this success.
This agricultural revolution not only boosted farmer incomes but also strengthened India's food security. It reduced the country's reliance on imported edible oils and contributed to the overall growth of the agricultural sector. The Yellow Revolution stands as a testament to India's commitment to agricultural self-sufficiency and sustainable farming practices.
