Which of the following states in India was most positively impacted by the Green Revolution?

The correct answer is Punjab.

Key Points

• Punjab emerged as the most positively impacted state during the Green Revolution due to the widespread adoption of high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, and advanced irrigation techniques.
• It became the breadbasket of India, contributing significantly to the production of wheat and rice, ensuring food security for the nation.
• The Green Revolution led to a dramatic increase in agricultural productivity in Punjab, with wheat production rising from 1.9 million tonnes in 1960 to 15.5 million tonnes by the 1990s.
• The state benefited from large-scale investments in irrigation infrastructure, particularly through the Bhakra-Nangal project and an extensive network of tube wells.
• Punjab's agricultural prosperity resulted in improved rural incomes and contributed significantly to India's self-sufficiency in food grains during the post-revolution period.

Additional Information

• Green Revolution in India
  • Introduced in the mid-1960s, the Green Revolution aimed at increasing agricultural productivity through the use of modern farming techniques.
  • It was spearheaded by Dr. M.S. Swaminathan and supported by the government under Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
  • Key components included the use of HYV seeds, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and improved irrigation facilities.
• High-Yield Variety (HYV) Seeds
  • These seeds were genetically developed to produce higher crop yields compared to traditional seeds.
  • Their use was a cornerstone of the Green Revolution in India, especially for crops like wheat and rice.
• Impact on Other States
  • While Punjab saw the maximum benefits, other states like Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh also witnessed significant agricultural growth due to the Green Revolution.
  • States like Bihar, Kerala, and Assam were less impacted due to inadequate irrigation facilities and less focus on HYV seed adoption.
• Environmental and Social Impacts
  • While the Green Revolution boosted food production, it led to issues like soil degradation, water depletion, and increased use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
  • It also widened regional disparities, benefiting agriculturally advanced states like Punjab and Haryana more than others.