Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define smart irrigation and highlight its significance in sustainable water management for agriculture. Briefly mention the challenges in India’s current irrigation system to establish the context. Example: “Smart irrigation systems leverage advanced technologies such as sensors and automation to ...
Model Answer Introduction India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses, contributing 35% of the global area and 25% of global production. Despite a 50% rise in domestic production over the last decade (from 18.3 million tonnes to 27.5 million tonnes), the country still relies on imports, accRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses, contributing 35% of the global area and 25% of global production. Despite a 50% rise in domestic production over the last decade (from 18.3 million tonnes to 27.5 million tonnes), the country still relies on imports, accounting for 9% of pulse consumption in 2021-22.
Key Factors Contributing to the Imbalance
1. Inadequate Government Procurement
- The low Minimum Support Price (MSP) and inadequate procurement discourage farmers from growing pulses.
- Lack of guaranteed returns creates production uncertainties.
2. Hoarding and Cartelization
- Traders’ stockpiling worsens shortages, leading to price spikes.
- Example: Arhar dal prices surged 15 times in a single month due to hoarding practices.
3. Lower Yields
- Pulses yield only 0.9 tonnes per hectare compared to wheat (3.5 tonnes/ha) and rice (2.8 tonnes/ha).
- Dependency on the monsoon and limited adoption of high-yield varieties further exacerbate the issue.
- Example: India’s tur yield is half that of Myanmar.
4. Production Disparities
- Overemphasis on crops like channa (50% of pulse production) reduces cultivation of other pulses, increasing reliance on imports of these varieties.
5. Infrastructure Gaps
- Poor storage, inadequate cold chains, and inefficient transportation lead to post-harvest losses.
- Example: Up to 10% of pulses and cereals are wasted annually due to infrastructural challenges.
6. Rising Demand from Dietary Changes
- Increased income and changing food habits have led to higher demand for protein-rich pulses.
- Example: NITI Aayog projects India’s pulse demand to reach 32.64 million tonnes by 2029-30.
Conclusion
To reduce import dependency, India must focus on improving yields through better technology, incentivizing farmers with assured MSP, reducing wastage via robust infrastructure, and diversifying pulse production. Addressing these issues is critical to ensuring food security and achieving self-sufficiency in pulses.
See less
Model Answer Issues with India's Current Irrigation System Low Coverage: Despite progress, only 55% of India's cultivated land has access to assured irrigation, leaving many farmers dependent on unpredictable rainfall. Unequal Distribution: Regional disparities persist in irrigation infrastructure.Read more
Model Answer
Issues with India’s Current Irrigation System
Role of Smart Irrigation Systems (SIS)
Conclusion
While high costs, power supply issues, and the need for farmer training remain challenges, smart irrigation systems offer a transformative solution for India’s irrigation inefficiencies. Their adoption can pave the way for sustainable water management and improved agricultural productivity.
See less