Roadmap for Answer Writing

Introduction

• Brief Overview of the Yellow Revolution:
  Begin by introducing the Yellow Revolution, also known as the Oilseed Revolution, which started in 1986.
  • Aim: To increase domestic production of oilseeds, including mustard, sunflower, and soybean, to reduce dependency on imports of edible oils.
  • Mention the significance of edible oils in India’s agricultural and economic landscape.

Key Elements of the Yellow Revolution

• Origin and Timeline:
  • Launched in 1986 as part of the Oil Technological Mission, continuing until 1987.
• Coverage and Focus:
  • Focused on improving oilseed cultivation, specifically mustard, soybean, and sunflower.
• Technological Advancements:
  • Introduction of high-yielding hybrid varieties, leading to significant increases in crop yields.

Significance of the Yellow Revolution for India’s Economy

1. Reduction in Import Dependence

• Key Fact: The Yellow Revolution boosted domestic production, reducing India’s reliance on imported edible oils.
• Impact: This shift improved India’s trade balance by decreasing foreign exchange expenditure on oilseed imports.

2. Employment Generation and Rural Livelihoods

• Key Fact: Oilseed cultivation and processing led to increased employment opportunities in rural areas.
• Impact: Farmers benefited from increased income through oilseed farming and the associated industries like oil extraction and refining.
• Example: Rural farmers were able to expand their operations and access markets, which contributed to regional economic growth.

3. Value Addition and Agro-Processing Industry

• Key Fact: The increase in oilseed production led to the establishment of agro-processing units.
• Impact: More value was added to oilseeds, contributing to higher economic returns and creating a multiplier effect in related industries like edible oils, soaps, and chemicals.

4. Boost to Agricultural Productivity

• Key Fact: The Yellow Revolution promoted the use of advanced farming techniques and high-yielding seed varieties.
• Impact: The revolution contributed to overall agricultural productivity in India, helping farmers adopt modern technologies and improve crop output.

5. Spillover Benefits to Other Industries

• Key Fact: Oilseeds are used not only for food production but also for manufacturing products in industries like chemicals, soaps, and detergents.
• Impact: The surplus oilseeds found uses beyond the food industry, contributing to the growth of India’s manufacturing and industrial sectors.

6. Improved Nutritional Outcomes and Human Capital Development

• Key Fact: Per capita edible oil consumption increased from 6.4 kg in 1976 to 15.4 kg in 2013.
• Impact: This increase in edible oil availability contributed to better nutrition across the country, which is key to improving human capital and overall public health.

Challenges and Areas for Further Growth

• Import Dependence Still High: Despite the success, India remains the largest consumer and importer of edible oils.
• Need for Continued Support: Further initiatives like the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-Oil Palm) are necessary for India to achieve complete self-sufficiency.