2. Environmental Science: Natural Resources part 4
Water Resources Day
The Water Resources Day is organized all over the Country since 1986 in April in order
to make the people more conscious about problems associated with the management of
water, a limited precious resource. As a result of the increasing encouraging response from
the Central/state Government and other voluntary agencies concerned, the Water Resources
Day was orgainsed at about 503 centres of the country during 1990. The theme for National
Debate was “Water for future.”
The Water Resources Day was celebrated at 800 places all over the country during
April-May 1991 by mobilizing the support of various state governments and other Agencies
including Local Offices. In view of the over-all increasing demand for water linked with the
increasing population pressure, the Theme for the forthcoming Water Resources Day was
selected as “Water Conservation.”
Note: Courtesy Research and References Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
FROM PROBLEM: CAUSES AND SUGGESTIONS
At present not only India but the whole world is facing the food problem.
Main Causes of Food Problem: Main causes of food problem are as under:
1. Quantitative aspect of food problem
(a) Increasing Population: Though food production has increased all over the world as
well as in India, yet due to over growth of population our needs also have increased
for greater than the production.
(b) Secondary, man off and on suffers from the draughts and floods. This is the reason
why the prices of food grains are shooting up.
Per capita net availability of food grains went up to a level of 496 grams per day in 1989
as compared to that of 395 grams in early fitfties. In 1990, it has been provisionally estimated
at 476 grams per day. In terms of gross fertilizers consumption, Indra ranks fourth in the
World after USA, USSR and China. The country has the largest in the World under Pulse
Crops. In the field of cotton, India is the first one to evolve a cotton hybrid. The country has
made a major breakthrough in Prawn Seed Production and Post Culture Technology.
Compound growth rate in agriculture production during the period 1949-50 to 1988-89
was 2.63 per cent per annum. Production of foodgrains increased significant from 549.2 lakh
tonnes in 1949-50 to 1706.3 lakh tones in 1989-90. Cropping pattern is more diversified and
The Water Resources Day is organized all over the Country since 1986 in April in order
to make the people more conscious about problems associated with the management of
water, a limited precious resource. As a result of the increasing encouraging response from
the Central/state Government and other voluntary agencies concerned, the Water Resources
Day was orgainsed at about 503 centres of the country during 1990. The theme for National
Debate was “Water for future.”
The Water Resources Day was celebrated at 800 places all over the country during
April-May 1991 by mobilizing the support of various state governments and other Agencies
including Local Offices. In view of the over-all increasing demand for water linked with the
increasing population pressure, the Theme for the forthcoming Water Resources Day was
selected as “Water Conservation.”
Note: Courtesy Research and References Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
FROM PROBLEM: CAUSES AND SUGGESTIONS
At present not only India but the whole world is facing the food problem.
Main Causes of Food Problem: Main causes of food problem are as under:
1. Quantitative aspect of food problem
(a) Increasing Population: Though food production has increased all over the world as
well as in India, yet due to over growth of population our needs also have increased
for greater than the production.
(b) Secondary, man off and on suffers from the draughts and floods. This is the reason
why the prices of food grains are shooting up.
Per capita net availability of food grains went up to a level of 496 grams per day in 1989
as compared to that of 395 grams in early fitfties. In 1990, it has been provisionally estimated
at 476 grams per day. In terms of gross fertilizers consumption, Indra ranks fourth in the
World after USA, USSR and China. The country has the largest in the World under Pulse
Crops. In the field of cotton, India is the first one to evolve a cotton hybrid. The country has
made a major breakthrough in Prawn Seed Production and Post Culture Technology.
Compound growth rate in agriculture production during the period 1949-50 to 1988-89
was 2.63 per cent per annum. Production of foodgrains increased significant from 549.2 lakh
tonnes in 1949-50 to 1706.3 lakh tones in 1989-90. Cropping pattern is more diversified and
cultivation of commercial crops has received new impetus in line with domestic demands
and export requirements.
During Post Green Revolution period i.e. 1967-68 to 1988-89, growth rate in agriculture
production was assessed at around 2.64 per cent annum. Production of foodgrains during
this period from 950.5 lakh tones to 1699.2 lakh tones. Cropping pattern has undergone
perceptible changes and non-traditional crops like summer moong, soya-bean, summer
groundnut, sunflower etc., are gradually gaining importance. In order to utilize scares
resources optimally, a short duration third crop is also being raised in some areas utilizing
residual moisture available from post-kharif and post-rabi cultivation.
The index of agriculture production, which registered an increase of 21.0 per cent in
1988-89 over the previous year showed further increase of 1.6 per cent in 1989-90 due to
primary increase recorded in the production of cotton, jute and mesta, sugarcane and other
commercial crop. The index of foodgrains during 1989-90 however, registered a marginal
increase of 0.4 per cent cover the previous years level of 182.5. It was anticipated that the
foodgrains production during 1990-91 would reach an another record level, the third year
in succession. Production of all lukseed crios except groundnut, cotton, surgance, jute and
mesta was also bright.
Inspite of an increase in production is failed to cope with the rapid and formidable
increasing in population.
2. Qualitative aspects of food problem
If we view from nutritional view point, we find that foodgrains have the storages. If
every person is given balanced diet, nutritious food must have per day per person 3000
calories but in India it is about 200 calories while Canada has 3060, America has 3090, U.K.
has 3290 and Japan has 2280.
The qualitative aspects of the poor’s food are more pitiable. In this way, Indians do not
even get appropriate nutritious elements. An average Indian is able to take only
carbohydrates, as he depends on ill-nutritious grains. From his meals protective food like
milk, fish egg, fruits and vegetables are absent.
The following reasons are responsible for unbalanced diet:
(i) Less production of protective food.
(ii) Low capacity for the purpose of nutritious articles.
(iii) Refraining from meat, fish and eggs due to religious causes.
(iv) Unawareness of balanced diet.
However, our government has become conscious of improving the nutritious status of
the people. A number of nutritious interventions have been made in recent years by different
sectors of the Government, which have direct and indirect impact on the nutritious status
of the people. The nutritious programmes of the department of food are directed towards
improving the nutritious status of the people through a combination of measures such as,
(i) Nutritious education and training.
(ii) Development and production of nutritious foods.
(iii) Fortification and enrichment of food.
and export requirements.
During Post Green Revolution period i.e. 1967-68 to 1988-89, growth rate in agriculture
production was assessed at around 2.64 per cent annum. Production of foodgrains during
this period from 950.5 lakh tones to 1699.2 lakh tones. Cropping pattern has undergone
perceptible changes and non-traditional crops like summer moong, soya-bean, summer
groundnut, sunflower etc., are gradually gaining importance. In order to utilize scares
resources optimally, a short duration third crop is also being raised in some areas utilizing
residual moisture available from post-kharif and post-rabi cultivation.
The index of agriculture production, which registered an increase of 21.0 per cent in
1988-89 over the previous year showed further increase of 1.6 per cent in 1989-90 due to
primary increase recorded in the production of cotton, jute and mesta, sugarcane and other
commercial crop. The index of foodgrains during 1989-90 however, registered a marginal
increase of 0.4 per cent cover the previous years level of 182.5. It was anticipated that the
foodgrains production during 1990-91 would reach an another record level, the third year
in succession. Production of all lukseed crios except groundnut, cotton, surgance, jute and
mesta was also bright.
Inspite of an increase in production is failed to cope with the rapid and formidable
increasing in population.
2. Qualitative aspects of food problem
If we view from nutritional view point, we find that foodgrains have the storages. If
every person is given balanced diet, nutritious food must have per day per person 3000
calories but in India it is about 200 calories while Canada has 3060, America has 3090, U.K.
has 3290 and Japan has 2280.
The qualitative aspects of the poor’s food are more pitiable. In this way, Indians do not
even get appropriate nutritious elements. An average Indian is able to take only
carbohydrates, as he depends on ill-nutritious grains. From his meals protective food like
milk, fish egg, fruits and vegetables are absent.
The following reasons are responsible for unbalanced diet:
(i) Less production of protective food.
(ii) Low capacity for the purpose of nutritious articles.
(iii) Refraining from meat, fish and eggs due to religious causes.
(iv) Unawareness of balanced diet.
However, our government has become conscious of improving the nutritious status of
the people. A number of nutritious interventions have been made in recent years by different
sectors of the Government, which have direct and indirect impact on the nutritious status
of the people. The nutritious programmes of the department of food are directed towards
improving the nutritious status of the people through a combination of measures such as,
(i) Nutritious education and training.
(ii) Development and production of nutritious foods.
(iii) Fortification and enrichment of food.
Nutritious education has become one of the important activities of the department for
more than three decades. Thirty Four Mobile Food and Nutrition Extension Units (MEUs)
equipped with mobile van, audio- visual equipments and technical trained personnel have
been set up the Department of Food in different parts of the country to impart nutrition
education in rural, urban and tribal areas. These units organise live demonstrations supported
by lecture-cum-discussions, films and slide shows and exhibitions on various aspects of food,
nutritions and health in collaboration with the state governments, educational institutions
and voluntary orgainsations. The Department of Food also has Thirty Three Food and
Nutrition Extensions (FNECs) in different Parts of Country for imparting education and
training in home-scale preservation of fruits and vegetables and nutrition mainly to the
housewives and providing progressing facilities for fruits and vegetables for domestic
consumption.
Realizing the importance of integrated to nutrition, the Department of Food is
implementing an Integrated Nutrition Education Scheme Department with a view to equip
the grass-root level works of the concerned sectors with simple knowledge in food, nutrition
and health so that these messages are conveyed to the community by all field functionaries
during the course of their respective duties. Intensive training is imparted to grass-root
level workers and their supervisors belonging to different sectors implementing nutrition,
health and welfare progrmmes by MEUs and FNECs by orgainising Integrated Nutrition
Education Camps at the block level and orientation training Nutrition Education Camps at
the block level orientation training courses at State Level Training Institutes or Home
Science Colleges respectively.
A Nation Nutritious Week is celebrated in the Country from 1-7 September every year
with a view to create nutritional awareness among the people. This Department has taken
up action programmes for the development and production of low-cost proceed nutritious
food for use in supplementary feeding, programme and meeting the requirements of vulnerable
sections of the population. These foods are Miltone (a nutritious milk beverage), Energy
Foods, Ready-to-Eat Extruded Food and Weaning Foods. It has also taken up schemes for
fortification of milk with Vatamin ‘A’ and Salt with Iron. The Milk Fortification Scheme is
in operation through 45 dairies in the Country covering 16 states and two union territories.
The analysis of fruit and vegetable products under the regulation of quality control of this
product for domestic consumption as well as export has also been entrusted to the department
and is carried out at Four Laboratories at Delhi, Bombay, Calcutta and Madras.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
3. Distribution aspect of Food Problem
Distribution of foodgrain is far from being satisfactory. It is essential that the available
foodgrains in the country should be distributed to public at fair-price and appropriate time.
But the policy adopted by the Government for food procurement, price control ends in fiasco
due to lack of initiative, hoarding and Black-marketing by traders is the next problem. It
is worth mentioning that our Government has taken up proper measures in this direction.
The Public distribution System has become one of the basic features in the Governments
Policy. Its role as an anti-inflationary measure has also been recognized. The system is
designised. The system is designed to help both the producers and the consumers, as
more than three decades. Thirty Four Mobile Food and Nutrition Extension Units (MEUs)
equipped with mobile van, audio- visual equipments and technical trained personnel have
been set up the Department of Food in different parts of the country to impart nutrition
education in rural, urban and tribal areas. These units organise live demonstrations supported
by lecture-cum-discussions, films and slide shows and exhibitions on various aspects of food,
nutritions and health in collaboration with the state governments, educational institutions
and voluntary orgainsations. The Department of Food also has Thirty Three Food and
Nutrition Extensions (FNECs) in different Parts of Country for imparting education and
training in home-scale preservation of fruits and vegetables and nutrition mainly to the
housewives and providing progressing facilities for fruits and vegetables for domestic
consumption.
Realizing the importance of integrated to nutrition, the Department of Food is
implementing an Integrated Nutrition Education Scheme Department with a view to equip
the grass-root level works of the concerned sectors with simple knowledge in food, nutrition
and health so that these messages are conveyed to the community by all field functionaries
during the course of their respective duties. Intensive training is imparted to grass-root
level workers and their supervisors belonging to different sectors implementing nutrition,
health and welfare progrmmes by MEUs and FNECs by orgainising Integrated Nutrition
Education Camps at the block level and orientation training Nutrition Education Camps at
the block level orientation training courses at State Level Training Institutes or Home
Science Colleges respectively.
A Nation Nutritious Week is celebrated in the Country from 1-7 September every year
with a view to create nutritional awareness among the people. This Department has taken
up action programmes for the development and production of low-cost proceed nutritious
food for use in supplementary feeding, programme and meeting the requirements of vulnerable
sections of the population. These foods are Miltone (a nutritious milk beverage), Energy
Foods, Ready-to-Eat Extruded Food and Weaning Foods. It has also taken up schemes for
fortification of milk with Vatamin ‘A’ and Salt with Iron. The Milk Fortification Scheme is
in operation through 45 dairies in the Country covering 16 states and two union territories.
The analysis of fruit and vegetable products under the regulation of quality control of this
product for domestic consumption as well as export has also been entrusted to the department
and is carried out at Four Laboratories at Delhi, Bombay, Calcutta and Madras.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
3. Distribution aspect of Food Problem
Distribution of foodgrain is far from being satisfactory. It is essential that the available
foodgrains in the country should be distributed to public at fair-price and appropriate time.
But the policy adopted by the Government for food procurement, price control ends in fiasco
due to lack of initiative, hoarding and Black-marketing by traders is the next problem. It
is worth mentioning that our Government has taken up proper measures in this direction.
The Public distribution System has become one of the basic features in the Governments
Policy. Its role as an anti-inflationary measure has also been recognized. The system is
designised. The system is designed to help both the producers and the consumers, as
procurement is linked to purchase and support prices and distribution is made at as more
of less uniform prices throughout. The system has also helped to provide a nutritious diet
at a low-budget to the common man. Moreover, this system has acted as an effective
establishing factor in India’s Social Life by providing a steady supply of essential commodities
at reasonable prices.
Pressured on the Public Distribution System continued, during the year due to higher
prices of essential commodities in the open market. Total allocations of Rice and Wheat
(including under PD, JRY Nutritional programme, etc.) during 1990-91 and 95.47 lakh tones
respectively as against 85.26 and 93.09 lakh tones respectively in the previous year.
With a view to control sugar prices and ensure its availability as reasonability at
reasonable rates to consumers, the Government took a number of measures including increase
of Sugar (both free sale Levy Sugar) from 9.32 lakh tones in August, 1990 to 10.07 lakh
tones per month in September on October, 1990.
In view of increased demand and reduction in the production of Indigenous Edible Oils
due to delayed rainfall in Gujarat, total allocations of imported Edible Oils during 1990 were
at the level of 6.52 lakh tones as against 3.91 lakh tones in the corresponding period in 1989,
showing an increase of 66.5 per cent. The lifting by state/Uts against the allocation during
1990 was 5.21 as against 3.27 during 1989.
The Public Distribution System continued to be a major component of our strategy for
growth with social justice. The Centre, states and union territories have a joint responsibility
in making this system a success. The working of this system is periodically reviewed in
consolation with state government and corrective measures taken. At the Centre, an Advisory
Council functions to review its working from time to time. In the states/Uts Consumer
Advisor Committee at District, Block and Taluka Levels oversee the working of the Fair
Price Shops. The network of Fair Price Shops has been expanding over the years and in
the last five years their number increased from 3.02 lakh (March, 1984) to 3.61 lakh (March,
1990). Special emphasis is being laid in opening of Fair Price Shops in remote, far-flung and
inaccessible areas, particularly covering tribal population. With a view to ensuring that the
essential commodities reach the farthest corners in hilly and inaccessible areas, the
Government continued to provide financial assistance to states/Uts enabling them to purchase
mobile vans. Such assistance was worth Rs. 144.50 lakh for purchase of 58 vans in 1990-91.
Government procures and supplies six essential commodities, viz., rice, Wheat Sugar,
Imported Edible Oils, Kerosene and Soft Coke. States/Uts are free to include any other
commodity of mass consumption by arranging for its procurement on their own. Some states
have arranged supplies of Pulses, Vanaspati, Soaps, cycle types and tubes, torch cells etc.
through Fair Price Shops.
4. Economic aspect of food problem
The price of foodgrains is soaring high while income has no proportionate
increase. Hence poor people are unable to avail two meals a day. Some illustrations are as
under:
(i) Cereals
Prince of Cereals, particularly Rice and Wheat, rose sharply towards the end of the
third quarter of 1990-91. In additional to increased allocations of these commodities through
of less uniform prices throughout. The system has also helped to provide a nutritious diet
at a low-budget to the common man. Moreover, this system has acted as an effective
establishing factor in India’s Social Life by providing a steady supply of essential commodities
at reasonable prices.
Pressured on the Public Distribution System continued, during the year due to higher
prices of essential commodities in the open market. Total allocations of Rice and Wheat
(including under PD, JRY Nutritional programme, etc.) during 1990-91 and 95.47 lakh tones
respectively as against 85.26 and 93.09 lakh tones respectively in the previous year.
With a view to control sugar prices and ensure its availability as reasonability at
reasonable rates to consumers, the Government took a number of measures including increase
of Sugar (both free sale Levy Sugar) from 9.32 lakh tones in August, 1990 to 10.07 lakh
tones per month in September on October, 1990.
In view of increased demand and reduction in the production of Indigenous Edible Oils
due to delayed rainfall in Gujarat, total allocations of imported Edible Oils during 1990 were
at the level of 6.52 lakh tones as against 3.91 lakh tones in the corresponding period in 1989,
showing an increase of 66.5 per cent. The lifting by state/Uts against the allocation during
1990 was 5.21 as against 3.27 during 1989.
The Public Distribution System continued to be a major component of our strategy for
growth with social justice. The Centre, states and union territories have a joint responsibility
in making this system a success. The working of this system is periodically reviewed in
consolation with state government and corrective measures taken. At the Centre, an Advisory
Council functions to review its working from time to time. In the states/Uts Consumer
Advisor Committee at District, Block and Taluka Levels oversee the working of the Fair
Price Shops. The network of Fair Price Shops has been expanding over the years and in
the last five years their number increased from 3.02 lakh (March, 1984) to 3.61 lakh (March,
1990). Special emphasis is being laid in opening of Fair Price Shops in remote, far-flung and
inaccessible areas, particularly covering tribal population. With a view to ensuring that the
essential commodities reach the farthest corners in hilly and inaccessible areas, the
Government continued to provide financial assistance to states/Uts enabling them to purchase
mobile vans. Such assistance was worth Rs. 144.50 lakh for purchase of 58 vans in 1990-91.
Government procures and supplies six essential commodities, viz., rice, Wheat Sugar,
Imported Edible Oils, Kerosene and Soft Coke. States/Uts are free to include any other
commodity of mass consumption by arranging for its procurement on their own. Some states
have arranged supplies of Pulses, Vanaspati, Soaps, cycle types and tubes, torch cells etc.
through Fair Price Shops.
4. Economic aspect of food problem
The price of foodgrains is soaring high while income has no proportionate
increase. Hence poor people are unable to avail two meals a day. Some illustrations are as
under:
(i) Cereals
Prince of Cereals, particularly Rice and Wheat, rose sharply towards the end of the
third quarter of 1990-91. In additional to increased allocations of these commodities through
tones of Wheat to roller flour mills, traders, Government Agencies and other users at the
rate of Rs 320 per quintal in Northern and Rs 330 per quintal in the Southern Parts of the
country. The procurement price of Paddy (common variety) rose from Rs 185 per quintal in
1989-90 Rs 205 per quintal in 1990-91 and of Wheat from Rs 183 quintal for 1989-90 to Rs
215 quintal in 1990-91.
(ii) Pulses
In the wake of decline in the Production of Pulses in 1989-90 to 126. 1 lakh tones from
138.5 tonnes in 1988-89, the prince of Pulses during 1990-91 period increased by 14.5 per
cent. In order to bridge the gap between demand-supply equilibrium, NAFED has been
authorized to import pulses under OGL Scheme. Under this scheme, NAFED registered
contracts for a total quantity of 97.7 lakh during 1990-91. As an incentive to production, the
Rs. 325 per quintal
for 1989-90 to Rs 421 per quintal for 1990-91 in case of Gram and Rs. 425 per quintal for
1989-90 to Rs. 180 per quintal for 1990-91 in the case of Arhar, Moong and Urad.
(iii) Edible Oils
Production of Oilseeds suffered a set-back during 1989-90.During this period the production
declined to 167.3 lakh tones from 178.9 lakh tones in 1988-90. As a result of this decline,
coupled with increased demand, the prices of Edible Oils rose by 30.1 per cent during 1990-
91. The Government has taken a number of steps to check the run-away increase in the prices
of Edible Oils. This includes exemption of Excise Duty on Refined Rapeseed/Mustard seed Oil,
reduction in the stock limits of Edible Oils with wholesalers and retailers and withdrawal of
permission for use of 20 per cent Expellor Mustard/Rapeseed Oil in the manufacture of
Vanaspati for ensuring increased availability of these oils during the lean period/festival
season. To increase the available position of Edible Oils in the open market, the imports have
been stepped-up from 3.73 lakh tones in the oil-years 1988-89 lakh tones in oil year 1989-90.
The Minimum Support Prices of Oilseeds were stepped-up as an incentive to Oilseed Gravers.
In the Case of Groundnut, the Minimum Support Price was increased from Rs. 500 per
quintal for 1989-90 to Rs. per quintal for 1990-91 and for Mustard Seed from Rs. 460 per
quintal to Rs. 575 per quintal.
(iv) Cement
During the financial year 1990-91, the Wholesale Prince Index of Cement showed and
increase to sharp increase in demand, lower growth rate of production, inadequate supply
The government took proper remedial steps.
Several factors contribution to the increase in prices. These included Budgetary Levies,
Hike in Petroleum cumulative effect of high liquidity, High Budgetary deficit, fall in the
substantial hike in minimum
., and the situation
being further aggravated by the Gulf Crisis.
The Government took several steps to contain the rising price spiral of essential
commodities. Allocation of foodgrains (Rice and Wheat) through the Public Distribution
System was increased from 1.55 lakh tones in January 1991 to 1.81 lakh tones in March
1990.
rate of Rs 320 per quintal in Northern and Rs 330 per quintal in the Southern Parts of the
country. The procurement price of Paddy (common variety) rose from Rs 185 per quintal in
1989-90 Rs 205 per quintal in 1990-91 and of Wheat from Rs 183 quintal for 1989-90 to Rs
215 quintal in 1990-91.
(ii) Pulses
In the wake of decline in the Production of Pulses in 1989-90 to 126. 1 lakh tones from
138.5 tonnes in 1988-89, the prince of Pulses during 1990-91 period increased by 14.5 per
cent. In order to bridge the gap between demand-supply equilibrium, NAFED has been
authorized to import pulses under OGL Scheme. Under this scheme, NAFED registered
contracts for a total quantity of 97.7 lakh during 1990-91. As an incentive to production, the
Rs. 325 per quintal
for 1989-90 to Rs 421 per quintal for 1990-91 in case of Gram and Rs. 425 per quintal for
1989-90 to Rs. 180 per quintal for 1990-91 in the case of Arhar, Moong and Urad.
(iii) Edible Oils
Production of Oilseeds suffered a set-back during 1989-90.During this period the production
declined to 167.3 lakh tones from 178.9 lakh tones in 1988-90. As a result of this decline,
coupled with increased demand, the prices of Edible Oils rose by 30.1 per cent during 1990-
91. The Government has taken a number of steps to check the run-away increase in the prices
of Edible Oils. This includes exemption of Excise Duty on Refined Rapeseed/Mustard seed Oil,
reduction in the stock limits of Edible Oils with wholesalers and retailers and withdrawal of
permission for use of 20 per cent Expellor Mustard/Rapeseed Oil in the manufacture of
Vanaspati for ensuring increased availability of these oils during the lean period/festival
season. To increase the available position of Edible Oils in the open market, the imports have
been stepped-up from 3.73 lakh tones in the oil-years 1988-89 lakh tones in oil year 1989-90.
The Minimum Support Prices of Oilseeds were stepped-up as an incentive to Oilseed Gravers.
In the Case of Groundnut, the Minimum Support Price was increased from Rs. 500 per
quintal for 1989-90 to Rs. per quintal for 1990-91 and for Mustard Seed from Rs. 460 per
quintal to Rs. 575 per quintal.
(iv) Cement
During the financial year 1990-91, the Wholesale Prince Index of Cement showed and
increase to sharp increase in demand, lower growth rate of production, inadequate supply
The government took proper remedial steps.
Several factors contribution to the increase in prices. These included Budgetary Levies,
Hike in Petroleum cumulative effect of high liquidity, High Budgetary deficit, fall in the
substantial hike in minimum
., and the situation
being further aggravated by the Gulf Crisis.
The Government took several steps to contain the rising price spiral of essential
commodities. Allocation of foodgrains (Rice and Wheat) through the Public Distribution
System was increased from 1.55 lakh tones in January 1991 to 1.81 lakh tones in March
1990.
State Governments and UT administrations were asked to step up enforcement activities
against hoarders, black-marketers and other antisocial elements. During the period from
January, 1990 to March, 1991, a total number of 1,24,885 raids were made, 5,900 persons
were arrested 4,557 persons were prosecuted and goods worth Rs. 1956.65 lakh were
confiscated under the Essential Commodities Act.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India
against hoarders, black-marketers and other antisocial elements. During the period from
January, 1990 to March, 1991, a total number of 1,24,885 raids were made, 5,900 persons
were arrested 4,557 persons were prosecuted and goods worth Rs. 1956.65 lakh were
confiscated under the Essential Commodities Act.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India
The causes of foodgrain problems can be understood under three heads-long term; midterm and short-term.
(a) Long-Term Causes
The long term causes of food problem are as under:
(1) Population growth
Instant imbalance in supply and demand of foodgrains is consequent to the enhanced
population pressure on the quantity of foodgrains.
(2) Decrease in agriculture output
For various reasons, agriculture output is decreasing day to day.
(3) Decrease in Productivity
Due to the afforestation, land abrasion; insufficient manures, defective agricultural
methods defective land tenures have led to decrease in productivity of land. Although new
agricultural policy increased the main crops by times, yet compared to other countries, it is
even less.
(4) Insistence of commercial agricultural
With the growth of importance to agriculture for commercial purposes, to earn immediate
profit production of foodgrains is discouraged.
(5) Natural Calamities
At times, the natural calamities like floods, crops instead of nutritious foodgrains as
the former has richer growth. Consequently there is scarcity of foodgrains.
(b) Mid-term Causes
(1) Position of 1947
With the independence in 1947, the country was sub-divided into Pakistan and India.
The areas with rich agricultural produce went to Pakistan. This led to food crisis in India.
(2) Defective Food Distribution
Food crisis is chiefly due to defective food distribution. Traders and consumers store in
lot when they see that production is less. Hence, crops available in market decrease and
prices soar.
(a) Long-Term Causes
The long term causes of food problem are as under:
(1) Population growth
Instant imbalance in supply and demand of foodgrains is consequent to the enhanced
population pressure on the quantity of foodgrains.
(2) Decrease in agriculture output
For various reasons, agriculture output is decreasing day to day.
(3) Decrease in Productivity
Due to the afforestation, land abrasion; insufficient manures, defective agricultural
methods defective land tenures have led to decrease in productivity of land. Although new
agricultural policy increased the main crops by times, yet compared to other countries, it is
even less.
(4) Insistence of commercial agricultural
With the growth of importance to agriculture for commercial purposes, to earn immediate
profit production of foodgrains is discouraged.
(5) Natural Calamities
At times, the natural calamities like floods, crops instead of nutritious foodgrains as
the former has richer growth. Consequently there is scarcity of foodgrains.
(b) Mid-term Causes
(1) Position of 1947
With the independence in 1947, the country was sub-divided into Pakistan and India.
The areas with rich agricultural produce went to Pakistan. This led to food crisis in India.
(2) Defective Food Distribution
Food crisis is chiefly due to defective food distribution. Traders and consumers store in
lot when they see that production is less. Hence, crops available in market decrease and
prices soar.
Dearness has increased while income of the people has not risen. Thus to purchase
foodgrains people lack the purchasing capacity.
(4) Limited Jurisdiction of Reserve Bank
Reserve Bank has extensive power to control the credit policy of commercial banks,
which prevent the traders from improper collection of foodgrains. However, it has no control
over the indigenous bankers and sahukars. Hence its policy ends in failure.
(c) Short-Term Causes
This classification includes such causes which provoke the crisis through imbalance in
supply and demand of foodgrains during a year.
Some causes are as under:
(1) Increase in Consumption Level
The progress of India people, on account of various reasons, has increased average
income which has led to increase the consumption level. Increase in demand results in
decrease in foodgrains.
(2) Deficit in Production
Untimely rains and under rains during the year bring less production.
(3) Anti- Social Activities
Anti-social activities of traders like brokerage, hoarding and black-marketing result in
artificial shortage of foodgrains.
(4) Transportation
Rise in the price of diesel and other lubricants as well as risks involved in transportation
also result in shortage of foodgrains now and then.
CHANGE AGRICULTURE AND OVERGRAZING
(1) Jhum Cultivation
In North-East India (Meghalaya), non-mechanized farming system called ‘Jhum’
cultivation has been practised since long. They cut a clearing in a forest during the dry
months, trees are felled, allowed to dry and then burnt. The fire kills weeds, seeds and
insects and provides the mineral rich ash. With the onset of rains, the farmer plants a crop.
The grain is harvested and the rest of the plant is burnt. When this system is practiced for
2 or 3 years, the soil fertility progressively decreases as there is less of ash every year (as
compared to the amount in the first year when the trees were burnt). When it is no longer
profitable to cultivate that part, the farmer moves on to another forest and repeats the same
cycle.
foodgrains people lack the purchasing capacity.
(4) Limited Jurisdiction of Reserve Bank
Reserve Bank has extensive power to control the credit policy of commercial banks,
which prevent the traders from improper collection of foodgrains. However, it has no control
over the indigenous bankers and sahukars. Hence its policy ends in failure.
(c) Short-Term Causes
This classification includes such causes which provoke the crisis through imbalance in
supply and demand of foodgrains during a year.
Some causes are as under:
(1) Increase in Consumption Level
The progress of India people, on account of various reasons, has increased average
income which has led to increase the consumption level. Increase in demand results in
decrease in foodgrains.
(2) Deficit in Production
Untimely rains and under rains during the year bring less production.
(3) Anti- Social Activities
Anti-social activities of traders like brokerage, hoarding and black-marketing result in
artificial shortage of foodgrains.
(4) Transportation
Rise in the price of diesel and other lubricants as well as risks involved in transportation
also result in shortage of foodgrains now and then.
CHANGE AGRICULTURE AND OVERGRAZING
(1) Jhum Cultivation
In North-East India (Meghalaya), non-mechanized farming system called ‘Jhum’
cultivation has been practised since long. They cut a clearing in a forest during the dry
months, trees are felled, allowed to dry and then burnt. The fire kills weeds, seeds and
insects and provides the mineral rich ash. With the onset of rains, the farmer plants a crop.
The grain is harvested and the rest of the plant is burnt. When this system is practiced for
2 or 3 years, the soil fertility progressively decreases as there is less of ash every year (as
compared to the amount in the first year when the trees were burnt). When it is no longer
profitable to cultivate that part, the farmer moves on to another forest and repeats the same
cycle.
IMPROVEMENT IN AGRICULTURE
The effects of modern agriculture can be summarised as under:
(1) Horticulture
The scientific cultivation of Horticultural Crops and Plantation Crops has helped to
increase both production and productivity. In fruits, a production level of 265 lakh tones has
been reached largely due to superior vegetatively propahated planning material, regular
bearing Hybrids of Mango, high-yielding varieties of Grapes, Papaya, Pomegranate, banana,
Ber, Aonal, Lime and Kinnow Mandarin, etc better crop production technology and Pest and
disease control measures.
The vegetable Production has reached 495.3 lakh tones from an area of 45-lakh hectare
due to 106 improved high-yielding varieties including F1 hybrids in 17 vegetable crops
evolved so far. A few of these tare resistant to diseases and pets. Similarly, the Potato
Production has reached 140 lakh tones as a result of 14 newly evolved disease resistant
varieties growing in different parts of the country, use of Virus Free Seeds being produced
through advanced techniques and improved production technologies. Introduction of ‘True
Potato Seeds’ has been done successfully to reduce the over-all cost of Potato Production.
Release of 18 improved high-yielding varieties in six other Tuber Crops like Cassava,
Sweet Potato, Yam etc. have improved prospects of higher production of these crops for food
and industrial purpose.
(2) Agriculture
Availability of Edible Oils including Vanaspati has increased significantly. The country
has been able to sustain and improve availability of basis consumption articles and has,
thus, raised the standard of living.
(3) Land Utilisation
Land utilization statistics are available for 92.7 per cent of total geographical area of
3287.3 lakh hectares. According to land use statistical available from states, area under
forests has increased from 404.8-lakh hectare in 1950-51 to 667.3 lakh hectares during the
same period. Broad cropping pattern indicates that though foodgrains have preponderance
in gross cropped area as compared to non-foodgrains, their relative share came down from
76.7 per cent during 1950-51 per cent during 1986-87.
The effects of modern agriculture can be summarised as under:
(1) Horticulture
The scientific cultivation of Horticultural Crops and Plantation Crops has helped to
increase both production and productivity. In fruits, a production level of 265 lakh tones has
been reached largely due to superior vegetatively propahated planning material, regular
bearing Hybrids of Mango, high-yielding varieties of Grapes, Papaya, Pomegranate, banana,
Ber, Aonal, Lime and Kinnow Mandarin, etc better crop production technology and Pest and
disease control measures.
The vegetable Production has reached 495.3 lakh tones from an area of 45-lakh hectare
due to 106 improved high-yielding varieties including F1 hybrids in 17 vegetable crops
evolved so far. A few of these tare resistant to diseases and pets. Similarly, the Potato
Production has reached 140 lakh tones as a result of 14 newly evolved disease resistant
varieties growing in different parts of the country, use of Virus Free Seeds being produced
through advanced techniques and improved production technologies. Introduction of ‘True
Potato Seeds’ has been done successfully to reduce the over-all cost of Potato Production.
Release of 18 improved high-yielding varieties in six other Tuber Crops like Cassava,
Sweet Potato, Yam etc. have improved prospects of higher production of these crops for food
and industrial purpose.
(2) Agriculture
Availability of Edible Oils including Vanaspati has increased significantly. The country
has been able to sustain and improve availability of basis consumption articles and has,
thus, raised the standard of living.
(3) Land Utilisation
Land utilization statistics are available for 92.7 per cent of total geographical area of
3287.3 lakh hectares. According to land use statistical available from states, area under
forests has increased from 404.8-lakh hectare in 1950-51 to 667.3 lakh hectares during the
same period. Broad cropping pattern indicates that though foodgrains have preponderance
in gross cropped area as compared to non-foodgrains, their relative share came down from
76.7 per cent during 1950-51 per cent during 1986-87.
(4) Seeds
India has transformed itself from a subsistence economy and food importing country to
one, which is self-sufficient in foodgrains. Recognizing seed as the primary input for increasing
agriculture production, the Central Government established the National Seeds Corporation
(NSC) in 1963 and the State Farms Corporation of India (SFCI) in 1969 to encourage the
production and distribution of certified seeds of various crops. Thirteen State Seed
Corporations have also been established to supply improved seeds to farmers.
(5) Quality Control
The Seeds Act was passed by Parliament in 1966 to ensure that farmers get good
quality seeds. There is a Central Seed Testing Laboratory and 90 State Seed Testing
Laboratories functioning in various states/union territories. There are also 19 seeds
certification agencies. New varieties of seeds are notified by the Central Seed Committee.
About 1775 new varieties have been notified so far. This has been possible due to the
collection efforts of research scientists, seeds technologists, progressive farmers and
administrators involved in agricultural development.
(6) Breeder Seeds
Production of Breeder Seeds is organized by the Indian Council of Agriculture Research
(ICAR) through the concerned breeders and scientists on receipt of indents from the state
governments. The National Seeds Corporation (NSC) and State Farms Corporation of India
(SFCI) also produce Breeder Seed.
(7) High-Yielding Variety programme
This High-Yielding Variety programme was started in 1966-67 as a major plank
of agriculture strategy for increase strategy of increasing production of foodgrains in the
country.
The main objectives of the programmes for increasing food grains production during the
Seventh Plan inter-alia included the following:
(i) Achieving self-sufficiency if food grains with the complete elimination of imports;
(ii) Imparting greater stability of foodgrains production;
(iii) Acceleration of growth rate in production of pulses and coarse grains, and
(iv) Protection of the interest both of farmers and consumers through price support
and better distribution measures.
High-yielding variety programmes is supported by the Cental sector Scheme of:
(i) Mini-kit programmes of Rice, Wheat, Jowar, Bajra, Maize and Ragi,
(ii) Maize demonstrations in tribal/backward areas,
(iii) State-level training of extension workers.
Mini-kit Demonstration Programmes aims at popularizing newly released varieties
and getting the newly evolved varieties tested under field conditions. For this, all large
number of seed mini-kit containing 0.25 kg. 5 kg seeds are distributed at a nominal cost
to farmers.
The objectives of Maize and Millers Demonstrations in backward and tribal areas is to
increase the adopting of latest Maize and Millets Protection Technology, bring about an
increase in the per unit are production of Maize and Millets and improve the economic
condition of the backward and tribal farmers.
(8) Dryland/Rainfed Farming
About 990 lakh hectare in the country is rainfed accounting for 70 per cent of the net
sown area of 1410.6 lakh hectare crops grown and cropping practices followed in these areas
entirely depend upon the rainfall which is often erratic and unpredictable. Bulk of the crops
like Rice, Jowar, Bajra, Other Millets, Pulses, Oilseeds and Cotton are grown in this area
under rainfed conditions. Farmers in these areas, particularly, small and Marginal farmers,
are still practicing subsistence farming and are not in the vertex of vicious circle. Wide
fluctuations in production in these areas is therefore of crucial importance.
The Government has given high-priority for the development of Dryland Areas and
accorded the importance for utilization of potential of these areas for:
(i) Realising the projected requirement of about 240 M.T. of annual food production
and to smooth out fluctuation in an annual production.
(ii) Reducing regional disparities between irrigated and vast rainfed areas;
(iii) Restoring ecological balance by ‘greening’ rainfed areas through appropriate mixture
of trees, shrubs and grasses and
(iv) Generating employment for rural masses and reducing large-scale migration from
rural area to already congested cities in towns. Holistic approach for Integrated
Farming Systems Development on Watershed Basis in rainfed areas would be the
main pursuit of the development activities.
(9) Himalayan Watershed Management Project in Uttar Pradesh
This Himalayan Watershed Management Project in Uttar Pradesh was launched in
1983 with the assistance of the World Bank. The main objective of this project is to minimize
further deterioration of the Himalayan Ecosystem caused by depletion of forests cover,
over-grazing, bad land use and careless road construction. The project is spread over 3.12
lakh hectare in Two Watersheds namely; Nayar in Garhwal and Panar in Kumaon Regions
of Uttar Pradesh with a total cost of US$ 660 lakh and World Bank Loan US$ 462 lakh.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
FERTILIZER PROBLEM
Fertilizer is very essential for increasing productivity in agriculture. It has been estimated
that about 70 per cent of growth in agriculture can be attributed to increased fertilizers
application. Increase in yearly consumption of fertilizers would thus be a good indication of
the country’s progress in agriculture.
Total consumption of fertilizers went up from 69,000 tonnes of nutrients in 1950-51 to
estimated level of 115.68 lakh tones during 1989-90. During 1990-91, the consumption of
fertilizers was around 126 lakh tones.
increase the adopting of latest Maize and Millets Protection Technology, bring about an
increase in the per unit are production of Maize and Millets and improve the economic
condition of the backward and tribal farmers.
(8) Dryland/Rainfed Farming
About 990 lakh hectare in the country is rainfed accounting for 70 per cent of the net
sown area of 1410.6 lakh hectare crops grown and cropping practices followed in these areas
entirely depend upon the rainfall which is often erratic and unpredictable. Bulk of the crops
like Rice, Jowar, Bajra, Other Millets, Pulses, Oilseeds and Cotton are grown in this area
under rainfed conditions. Farmers in these areas, particularly, small and Marginal farmers,
are still practicing subsistence farming and are not in the vertex of vicious circle. Wide
fluctuations in production in these areas is therefore of crucial importance.
The Government has given high-priority for the development of Dryland Areas and
accorded the importance for utilization of potential of these areas for:
(i) Realising the projected requirement of about 240 M.T. of annual food production
and to smooth out fluctuation in an annual production.
(ii) Reducing regional disparities between irrigated and vast rainfed areas;
(iii) Restoring ecological balance by ‘greening’ rainfed areas through appropriate mixture
of trees, shrubs and grasses and
(iv) Generating employment for rural masses and reducing large-scale migration from
rural area to already congested cities in towns. Holistic approach for Integrated
Farming Systems Development on Watershed Basis in rainfed areas would be the
main pursuit of the development activities.
(9) Himalayan Watershed Management Project in Uttar Pradesh
This Himalayan Watershed Management Project in Uttar Pradesh was launched in
1983 with the assistance of the World Bank. The main objective of this project is to minimize
further deterioration of the Himalayan Ecosystem caused by depletion of forests cover,
over-grazing, bad land use and careless road construction. The project is spread over 3.12
lakh hectare in Two Watersheds namely; Nayar in Garhwal and Panar in Kumaon Regions
of Uttar Pradesh with a total cost of US$ 660 lakh and World Bank Loan US$ 462 lakh.
Note: Courtesy Research and Reference Division Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Govt. of India.
FERTILIZER PROBLEM
Fertilizer is very essential for increasing productivity in agriculture. It has been estimated
that about 70 per cent of growth in agriculture can be attributed to increased fertilizers
application. Increase in yearly consumption of fertilizers would thus be a good indication of
the country’s progress in agriculture.
Total consumption of fertilizers went up from 69,000 tonnes of nutrients in 1950-51 to
estimated level of 115.68 lakh tones during 1989-90. During 1990-91, the consumption of
fertilizers was around 126 lakh tones.
Soil-testing is an important tool to advise farmers on judicious, balanced and efficient
use of fertilizers for economic returns. There are 461 soil-testing laboratories with analysis
capacity of 64.75-lakh-soil sample per annum. It is intended to expand the soils, twenty-five
sets of Atomic Absorption Spectro Photometers had been provided to the state governments
under the India-United Kingdom Bilateral Programme. Besides, the state government/
agriculture universities have installed a number of such equipments.
Balanced and Integrated use of Fertilizers and Organic Manures
Appreciable progress has been made in crop production by the increased use of ‘NPK
Fertilizers’. However, lately the intensification of agriculture coupled with the use of his
analysis chemical fertilizers has resulted in soil micronutrient deficiencies in large areas. To
ensure optimum benefit from ‘NPK Fertilizers’, it is necessary that they are applied on the
basis of soil-testing results and, where necessary, in combination with micronutrients farmers
are being encouraged through extension training to do this. Organic Manures are essential
for maintaining proper soil health. The Country has a potential of 650 million of rural and
160 lakh tones of Urban Compost. Presently, the potential is not fully utilized.
Fertilizers Quality Control
Quality, price and trade in fertilizers are regulated so that farmers get good quality
fertilizers at the right time and at reasonable prices. The Government has issued the
Fertilizers (Control) Order, 1985, under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. This order
sampling analysis and provision for appointment of enforcement agencies for regulating the
trade and distribution of fertilizers. There are 43 fertilizers Quality Control and Training
Institute at Faridabad with its One Central Fertilizers Quality Control and Madras. Total
analyzing capacity of these laboratories in the Country is 87,400 fertilizers samples per
annum. The institute organizes training programmes for state enforcement officers, state
fertilizers analysts and for foreigner’s developing countries. Besides, training courses for
fertilizers dealers are also organized in collaboration with the state governments and the
fertilizers industry.
Development of Bio-Fertilizers
Decreasing non-renewable petroleum reserves all over the World and increasing cost of
chemical fertilizers have necessitated search, for alternative renewable sources to meet the
increasing demand, for chemical fertilizers, Emphasis is being laid on integrated nutrient
supply through combined use of fertilizers, organic manures and bio-fertilizers. Scientists
have proved that bio-fertilizers are an effective, cheap and renewable supplement to chemical
fertilizers. Rhizobium inoculants have been found to be effective for pulses, Legume Fodder,
Legume Oilseeds like Soyabean, Groundnut and Blue Green Algae (BGA) for lowland Paddy.
Considering the prospect of bio-fertilizers, the government is implementing the National
Project on Development and Use of Bio-fertilizers with a view to produce, distribute and
promote bio-fertilizers used by organizing training and demonstration programmes and also
quality testing of bio-fertilizers. Under the scheme, one National Centre at Ghaziabad in
Uttar Pradesh and Six Regional Centres Bangalore (Karnataka), Bhubaneshwar (Orissa),
Hissar (Haryana), Imphal (Manipur), Jabalpur (M.P.) and Nagpur (Maharasthra) have been
use of fertilizers for economic returns. There are 461 soil-testing laboratories with analysis
capacity of 64.75-lakh-soil sample per annum. It is intended to expand the soils, twenty-five
sets of Atomic Absorption Spectro Photometers had been provided to the state governments
under the India-United Kingdom Bilateral Programme. Besides, the state government/
agriculture universities have installed a number of such equipments.
Balanced and Integrated use of Fertilizers and Organic Manures
Appreciable progress has been made in crop production by the increased use of ‘NPK
Fertilizers’. However, lately the intensification of agriculture coupled with the use of his
analysis chemical fertilizers has resulted in soil micronutrient deficiencies in large areas. To
ensure optimum benefit from ‘NPK Fertilizers’, it is necessary that they are applied on the
basis of soil-testing results and, where necessary, in combination with micronutrients farmers
are being encouraged through extension training to do this. Organic Manures are essential
for maintaining proper soil health. The Country has a potential of 650 million of rural and
160 lakh tones of Urban Compost. Presently, the potential is not fully utilized.
Fertilizers Quality Control
Quality, price and trade in fertilizers are regulated so that farmers get good quality
fertilizers at the right time and at reasonable prices. The Government has issued the
Fertilizers (Control) Order, 1985, under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. This order
sampling analysis and provision for appointment of enforcement agencies for regulating the
trade and distribution of fertilizers. There are 43 fertilizers Quality Control and Training
Institute at Faridabad with its One Central Fertilizers Quality Control and Madras. Total
analyzing capacity of these laboratories in the Country is 87,400 fertilizers samples per
annum. The institute organizes training programmes for state enforcement officers, state
fertilizers analysts and for foreigner’s developing countries. Besides, training courses for
fertilizers dealers are also organized in collaboration with the state governments and the
fertilizers industry.
Development of Bio-Fertilizers
Decreasing non-renewable petroleum reserves all over the World and increasing cost of
chemical fertilizers have necessitated search, for alternative renewable sources to meet the
increasing demand, for chemical fertilizers, Emphasis is being laid on integrated nutrient
supply through combined use of fertilizers, organic manures and bio-fertilizers. Scientists
have proved that bio-fertilizers are an effective, cheap and renewable supplement to chemical
fertilizers. Rhizobium inoculants have been found to be effective for pulses, Legume Fodder,
Legume Oilseeds like Soyabean, Groundnut and Blue Green Algae (BGA) for lowland Paddy.
Considering the prospect of bio-fertilizers, the government is implementing the National
Project on Development and Use of Bio-fertilizers with a view to produce, distribute and
promote bio-fertilizers used by organizing training and demonstration programmes and also
quality testing of bio-fertilizers. Under the scheme, one National Centre at Ghaziabad in
Uttar Pradesh and Six Regional Centres Bangalore (Karnataka), Bhubaneshwar (Orissa),
Hissar (Haryana), Imphal (Manipur), Jabalpur (M.P.) and Nagpur (Maharasthra) have been
established. The anticipated production from these Centres during 1990-91 is 85 tonnes of
Rhizobium Inocculant. In addition to production, these Centres have “Culture Collection
Bank” with a good number of effective and promising starting. Quality-testing for biofertilizers have also been taken up at these centers. During 1988-89, Sixty Blue Green Algae
(BGA) Centres have produced 110 tonnes and during 1989-90, it was 200 tonnes. It is
expected that during 1990-91 also the production will be maintained at the same level.
Fertilizers and Pollution
Some of the fertilizers have washed off the lands through irrigation, rainfall and drainage,
into rivers and streams. There they can seriously disturb the aquatic ecosystem. Depletion
of dissolved oxygen caused by excessive algae growths can bring disaste or death to fish and
other aquatic biota. Excessive and indiscriminate application of inorganic fertilizers often
leads to accumulation of nitrates in water. When such waters are drunk by living beings,
these nitrates are reduced to the toxic nitrites by intestinal bacteria. Nitrites can cause a
serious disease known as nethnohlobinemia. The disease can inflict serious damage to
respiratory and vascular systems and may even cause suffocation.
The indiscriminate and excessive use of fertilizers can have serious and adverse ecological
consequences, especially in aquatic ecosystems and ground water resources. The world’s
ecosystems form a sort of continuous and interlinked network. As such, the materials lost
by one ecosystem may spell a gain for its neighbours. Hence fertilizers when applied in
excess, leach from crop fields into water bodies, affecting the down-stream aquatic life.
Beneficial Affects of Fertilizers
Known beneficial effects of fertilizers use in ecosystems include the following:
(1) Increase in food production,
(2) Improvement of soils in temperature areas,
(3) Checking of soil erosion
(4) Conservation of soil and water;
(5) Enhancement in water and efficiency of crops.
Adverse Effects of Fertilizers
Some adverse effects of fertilizers used are as under:
(1) Changes in mobility status of nutrients in soils.
(2) Deterioratory of water resources caused by eutrophication.
(3) Stimulation of weed growth in crop fields.
(4) Disturbance in the ionic balance and equilibrium in soils, often leading to high
acidity, nutritional imbalance, shortages of certain trace elements, and molybdenum
or selenium toxicity.
(5) The Excessive applications of nitrogenous fertilizers to soils can lead to its
accumulation to such a stage that the plants begin to absorb excess amounts and
even then some of the excess amounts present in the soil get leaked off through the
soil into groundwater or into streams and springs.
Rhizobium Inocculant. In addition to production, these Centres have “Culture Collection
Bank” with a good number of effective and promising starting. Quality-testing for biofertilizers have also been taken up at these centers. During 1988-89, Sixty Blue Green Algae
(BGA) Centres have produced 110 tonnes and during 1989-90, it was 200 tonnes. It is
expected that during 1990-91 also the production will be maintained at the same level.
Fertilizers and Pollution
Some of the fertilizers have washed off the lands through irrigation, rainfall and drainage,
into rivers and streams. There they can seriously disturb the aquatic ecosystem. Depletion
of dissolved oxygen caused by excessive algae growths can bring disaste or death to fish and
other aquatic biota. Excessive and indiscriminate application of inorganic fertilizers often
leads to accumulation of nitrates in water. When such waters are drunk by living beings,
these nitrates are reduced to the toxic nitrites by intestinal bacteria. Nitrites can cause a
serious disease known as nethnohlobinemia. The disease can inflict serious damage to
respiratory and vascular systems and may even cause suffocation.
The indiscriminate and excessive use of fertilizers can have serious and adverse ecological
consequences, especially in aquatic ecosystems and ground water resources. The world’s
ecosystems form a sort of continuous and interlinked network. As such, the materials lost
by one ecosystem may spell a gain for its neighbours. Hence fertilizers when applied in
excess, leach from crop fields into water bodies, affecting the down-stream aquatic life.
Beneficial Affects of Fertilizers
Known beneficial effects of fertilizers use in ecosystems include the following:
(1) Increase in food production,
(2) Improvement of soils in temperature areas,
(3) Checking of soil erosion
(4) Conservation of soil and water;
(5) Enhancement in water and efficiency of crops.
Adverse Effects of Fertilizers
Some adverse effects of fertilizers used are as under:
(1) Changes in mobility status of nutrients in soils.
(2) Deterioratory of water resources caused by eutrophication.
(3) Stimulation of weed growth in crop fields.
(4) Disturbance in the ionic balance and equilibrium in soils, often leading to high
acidity, nutritional imbalance, shortages of certain trace elements, and molybdenum
or selenium toxicity.
(5) The Excessive applications of nitrogenous fertilizers to soils can lead to its
accumulation to such a stage that the plants begin to absorb excess amounts and
even then some of the excess amounts present in the soil get leaked off through the
soil into groundwater or into streams and springs.
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