Gujarat’s Agricultural Success: From White Revolution to Sustainable Farming
Gujarat, a key player in India’s White Revolution, is now leading a new era of sustainable agriculture. Known as India’s “Growth Engine,” the state’s agriculture sector has grown at 9.7% annually, surpassing the national average of 5.7%. This success is due to two decades of pro-farming policies under leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Innovative Farming Techniques
Initiatives such as Soil Health Cards and the Jyotigram Scheme have promoted sustainable practices and expanded irrigation. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the use of drip and micro-irrigation in North Gujarat, benefiting drought-prone areas. The Krushi Mahotsav, launched by Modi, connects farmers with modern techniques, boosting productivity.
Crop Diversification and Production
Since 2001, Gujarat’s farmers have shifted towards horticulture, increasing crop area by 181% and production by 326%. By 2022, fruit production reached 82.91 lakh MT, with major crops like mango, banana, and pomegranate. Gujarat is also a leading producer of spices, covering 6.57 lakh hectares with an output of 12.01 lakh MT.
Support for Farmers
The government supports high-value crops like dates and dragon fruit through subsidies. Farmers like Vinodbhai Ahir benefit from drip irrigation schemes and financial support. The state promotes natural farming, with over 18 lakh farmers trained in these methods.
Dairy and Modern Techniques
Gujarat is a dairy powerhouse, producing 150 lakh litres daily. Farmers combine crop cultivation and livestock raising, diversifying income sources. Schemes like the Jyotigram Scheme provide 24-hour electricity for irrigation, transforming barren land into productive fields.
Future Prospects
Under CM Patel, the government is digitizing land records, improving the “Ease of Doing Business.” By championing modern techniques and empowering farmers, Gujarat sets an example for India, promoting productivity and environmental stewardship.
Doubts Revealed
White Revolution -: The White Revolution was a movement in India to increase milk production. It made India one of the largest producers of milk in the world. It is similar to the Green Revolution, which was about increasing food grain production.
Sustainable Farming -: Sustainable farming means growing food in a way that is good for the environment. It uses methods that protect the soil, water, and air. This helps ensure that future generations can also grow food.
PM Modi -: PM Modi refers to Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. He was also the Chief Minister of Gujarat before becoming the Prime Minister.
CM Patel -: CM Patel refers to Bhupendra Patel, the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He is responsible for the administration and governance of the state.
Soil Health Cards -: Soil Health Cards are given to farmers to help them understand the health of their soil. It tells them what nutrients are present and what is needed for better crop growth.
Jyotigram Scheme -: The Jyotigram Scheme is a program in Gujarat to provide electricity to rural areas. It helps farmers get a reliable power supply for irrigation and other needs.
Horticulture -: Horticulture is the practice of growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It is different from regular farming because it focuses on plants that are not grains.
Dairy Powerhouse -: A dairy powerhouse means a place that produces a lot of milk and milk products. Gujarat is known for producing a large amount of milk every day.
18 lakh farmers -: 18 lakh farmers means 1.8 million farmers. It shows a large number of farmers in Gujarat have been trained in new farming methods.
