1.4 The green revolution  (Page 5/3)

Social sciences

Geography

Development issues

Grade 9

Module 5

The green revolution

The Green Revolution

The Green Revolution refers to a campaign that was launched over thirty years ago to dramatically increase food production. The term was created by the Agency for International Development in the USA in 1968. The term refers to the period from 1967 to 1978. Initially the focus fell on the expansion of land used for the cultivation of crops. During this time the production of crops such as rice and wheat was doubled. These products are known as staple foods – find out what this means and in which countries rice or wheat is used as staple foods. Eventually other methods and techniques were used to improve the production of crops. The next five points are important:

• New crop cultivars
• Irrigation
• Fertilisers
• Pesticides
• Mechanisation

Activity 1:

To make a study of techniques used for increased agricultural production

[lo 2.1]

a) Write short notes on each technique, mentioning where it is applied – worldwide, as well as in your environment. Also briefly state its contribution to development. Try to bring along any visual material.

b) Write an essay or have a class discussion on what would happen if there is no more food left in the world or in our country.

c) What field of study would you follow if you want to make a contribution to solve these problems?

d) What career opportunities exist in this field?

e) Where is training in this field offered in our own country?

f) What is the role of farmers and farm workers regarding these issues, and what problems do they have to contend with?

2. Ask somebody who lives on a farm to tell you more about it, or plan a trip to a farm or agricultural-technical institution where farmers or officials can offer more information.
3. Would you consider becoming a farmer, farm manager, farm worker or agriculturalist?
4. What are the challenges, advantages and disadvantages of the above?

The Green Revolution in India

The Green Revolution in India comprised three elements:

The continual expansion of farming areas

Doubling the output of crops on existing farmland

Making use of genetically improved seed

The Green Revolution led to a record wheat harvest in 1978 – 79, making India one of the largest agricultural producers.

The production of crops per agricultural land unit has increased by over 30% since the country became independent in 1947.

Genetically improved seed yielded very good results. Over 70% of the wheat crop, 35% of the rice crop and 20% of the manna- en grain crop came from genetically advanced seed.

The Green Revolution has led to the creation of job opportunities as the need for fertilisers and chemical substances increased, and more dams were built.

The Green Revolution transformed India from a famished nation into an exporter of food. What advantages did it hold for the country?

Lessons from the Green Revolution

Thee Green Revolution had its advantages, but certain lessons were also to be learned.

Activity 2:

To identify the most important lessons that the green revolution in india had taught us

[lo 1.5]

Read the text below and write a short paragraph on each of the lessons that had been learned.