Write a note on the uneven impact of ‘Green Revolution’ on rural society. (UPSC CSE Mains 2016 - Sociology, Paper 2).
The Green Revolution, a period of significant agricultural advancements characterized by the adoption of modern technologies and improved crop varieties, had a profound impact on global agriculture. While it brought about remarkable changes and increased agricultural productivity, its effects were not uniform across all segments of society.
- Increased Agricultural Productivity:
- Positive Impact: The Green Revolution led to a substantial increase in agricultural output through the adoption of high-yielding crop varieties and modern farming techniques.
- Negative Impact: Larger landholders and farmers with better access to resources benefited more from increased productivity, further marginalizing small and resource-poor farmers.
- Example: In India, wealthier farmers in Punjab and Haryana reaped significant benefits, while small-scale farmers in less developed regions saw limited improvements.
- Economic Disparities:
- Positive Impact: The Green Revolution contributed to economic growth by boosting agricultural income and enhancing market linkages.
- Negative Impact: Economic disparities widened as prosperous farmers accumulated wealth, while marginal farmers and agricultural laborers struggled due to lack of access to resources and landlessness.
- Example: The economic gap between large landholders and small-scale farmers widened in regions where the Green Revolution was implemented.
- Impact on Rural Employment:
- Positive Impact: The Green Revolution initially generated employment opportunities, especially during peak agricultural seasons.
- Negative Impact: Over time, the adoption of mechanization and modern farming techniques reduced the demand for manual labor, leading to rural unemployment and underemployment.
- Example: In Mexico, the Green Revolution initially increased employment but eventually reduced demand for agricultural labor.
- Environmental Consequences:
- Positive Impact: The Green Revolution successfully increased agricultural output, contributing to food security and meeting growing population demands.
- Negative Impact: Intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides led to environmental degradation, soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
- Example: In the United States, excessive use of agrochemicals during the Green Revolution had long-term negative environmental impacts.
The Green Revolution undoubtedly revolutionized agriculture and played a pivotal role in meeting the food demands of a rapidly growing population. However, its impacts were not uniformly distributed across the rural society. While it uplifted the economic status of some farmers and regions, it marginalized others, widened economic disparities, and had adverse environmental consequences. A more sustainable and inclusive approach to agriculture is crucial, emphasizing equitable distribution of benefits, environmental stewardship, and empowerment of marginalized communities to achieve a balanced and prosperous rural society.
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