Green Revolution in India A Complete UPSC Guide | AskPrep IAS

Green Revolution: Global Pros and Cons*

*Pros:*

1. *Increased Food Production*: Yield increases of 200-300% for wheat and rice.

2. *Reduced Hunger and Malnutrition*: Saved over 1 billion people from starvation.

3. *Economic Growth*: Contributed to economic development in many countries.

4. *Reduced Import Reliance*: Decreased food imports for several nations.

5. *Improved Food Security*: Enhanced availability and accessibility of food.

*Cons:*

1. *Environmental Degradation*: Soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

2. *Water Scarcity*: Excessive irrigation depleted groundwater resources.

3. *Pesticide and Fertilizer Overuse*: Led to chemical contamination and resistance issues.

4. *Soil Salinization*: Irrigation practices increased soil salt levels, reducing fertility.

5. *Increased Greenhouse Gas Emissions*: Contributed to climate change.

6. *Negative Impact on Small Farmers*: Benefited large-scale farmers more, exacerbating inequality.

7. *Loss of Crop Diversity*: Promoted monoculture farming, reducing genetic diversity.

8. *Health Risks to Farmers and Consumers*: Exposure to toxic chemicals increased health issues.

Detailed List of Health Risks:*

*Health Risks to Farmers:*

1. *Cancer*: Increased risk of blood, lung, liver, and skin cancers due to pesticide exposure.

2. *Neurological Disorders*: Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and nerve damage from pesticide inhalation.

3. *Birth Defects*: Exposure to toxic chemicals linked to congenital abnormalities.

4. *Reproductive Issues*: Reduced fertility, miscarriages, and stillbirths.

5. *Respiratory Problems*: Asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing difficulties.

6. *Skin Conditions*: Dermatitis, eczema, and skin cancer from chemical contact.

7. *Eye and Vision Problems*: Blindness, cataracts, and eye irritation.

*Health Risks to Consumers:*

1. *Cancer*: Increased cancer risk from consuming pesticide-residue contaminated food.

[15:04, 27/06/2025] H R Gururaj: solutions

[15:04, 27/06/2025] Ayushi: *Solutions to Reduce Health Risks from Toxic Chemicals in Farming:*

*For Farmers:*

1. *Switch to Organic Farming*: Avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

2. *Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)*: Masks, gloves, goggles when handling chemicals.

3. *Improve Ventilation*: Reduce inhalation of toxic fumes in enclosed spaces.

4. *Wash Hands and Clothes*: Frequently after chemical exposure.

5. *Medical Monitoring*: Regular health check-ups for early detection.

*For Consumers:*

1. *Choose Organic Produce*: Reduce exposure to pesticide residues.

2. *Wash Fruits and Vegetables*: Thoroughly before consumption.

3. *Peel or Remove Skins*: When possible, to reduce residue intake.

4. *Vary Food Sources*: Limit exposure from single contaminated sources.

5. **Support Sustainable

Organic Farming and Gardening are Possible in Urban Cities:*

*Methods:*

1. *Rooftop Gardening*: Utilize building roofs for organic gardens.

2. *Vertical Farming*: Use trellises or wall-mounted systems for space-saving crops.

3. *Container Gardening*: Grow plants in pots or containers on balconies or patios.

4. *Community Gardens*: Collaborate with neighbors for shared organic gardening spaces.

5. *Urban Greenhouses*: Controlled environments for year-round organic production.

6. *Balcony Gardening*: Make use of balcony space for herbs, veggies, or fruits.

7. *Window Box Gardening*: Attach planters to windows for additional growing space.

*Benefits for Urban Cities:*

1. *Fresh Produce Availability*

2. *Reduced Carbon Footprint*

3. *Increased Green Spaces*

4. *Community Building*

5. *Improved Air Quality*

6. *Enhanced Food Security*

7. *Mental Health Benefits*

*Indian Cities Already Doing This:*

1. Mumbai - Rooftop gardens in high-rises

2. Bengaluru - Community gardens in residential areas

3. Delhi - Vertical farms in urban spaces