What is DMH-11 that was recently approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee? What are the advantages and challenges in its adoption?

The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), working under the ambit of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has recently approved the environmental release of GM Mustard Hybrid DMH 11 for seed production and commercial cultivation. DMH 11: Dhara ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India • GS-III: E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers • GS-III: Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology • GS-III: Environmental Impact Assessment

An overhaul of Agro-R&D is imperative for fulfilling of India’s obligations of doubling farmer’s income. Comment.

The Agriculture sector requires robust R&D to improve livelihoods, by raising yields and quality. Therefore, there is a need for the following measures: Liberalising salary structures and promotion criteria of research institutions like Indian Council for Agricultural Research. Performance based ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India • GS-III: Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems • GS-III: Storage Transport and Marketing of Agricultural Produce Related Issues • GS-III: E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers

The negative consequences of input-intensive and unsustainable agricultural practices in India can be nullified by transitioning to Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA). Discuss.

The Green revolution catalyzed heavy use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, as well as water. Indian food security improved, yet there has been degradation of ecology and increasing indebtedness of farmers. Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture minimizes use of inputs, ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India • GS-III: Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems • GS-III: Storage Transport and Marketing of Agricultural Produce Related Issues • GS-III: E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers

Highlight the hurdles faced by agricultural extension services in India. Also, explain how Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) can help to strengthen National Agricultural Research Extension System.

Agricultural extension is the process of providing informal advice to the farmers so that they can improve their income by changing farming methods, cropping pattern and input usage based on scientific advice. Problems with agricultural extension: Reach – All farmers ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India • GS-III: E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers

Indian agriculture faces a new set of problems due to changing land holding pattern. Discuss its consequences and suggest ways to resolve such structural issues in agriculture.

Changing land holding pattern is one of the major problems in Indian agriculture sector. Changing land holding pattern: Land fragmentation – resulting in decreased revenue. Small land holdings – Inability to use large machinery. Prevalence of subsistence agriculture. Subleasing of ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India • GS-III: Land Reforms in India

Geo-climatic, socio-cultural, economic, historical and political factors are the key determiners of the cropping pattern of any region. Substantiate with relevant examples.

Different regions have different cropping patterns and agricultural practices, but the patterns that we see today have developed across centuries, owing to a wide range of factors. The cropping pattern of a region is influenced by various factors: Geo-climatic: Monsoon ..

Topics: GS-III: Major Crops Cropping Patterns in Various Parts of India