UPSC Mains 2023 GS1 Q17 — Agricultural Development
From being net food importer in 1960, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide reasons. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Provide reasons
- Scope keywords
- net food importer in 1960emerged as a net food exporterto the world
- Implicit sub-parts
- The historical context of the 1960s food crisis (Ship-to-Mouth existence) necessitating the shift.
- The role of technological and institutional interventions (Green Revolution, White Revolution).
- Evolution of agricultural policy and infrastructure (MSP, Irrigation, Cold Chain).
- Current status and diversification of exports (Basmati, marine products, sugar, buffalo meat).
- Common pitfalls
- Focusing only on the Green Revolution of the 1960s and ignoring recent developments like the 'Blue' or 'Pink' revolutions.
- Failing to mention specific institutional support systems like APEDA or the role of the PDS system in creating surpluses.
- Ignoring the shift from cereal-centric exports to high-value commodities like marine products and spices.
- Wasting too many words on the 'problem' of the 1960s rather than the 'reasons' for the transition.
- Dimensions required
- Historical contextTechnological/Scientific advancementPolicy and Institutional frameworkEconomic/Infrastructural developmentGlobal Trade integration
- Marks allocation hint
Devote approximately 40 words to the 1960s context and the 'Ship-to-Mouth' scenario. Allocate 150 words to the core 'reasons' covering technology, policy, and infrastructure. Reserve the final 60 words for the current export profile and a concluding remark on the sustainability of this status.
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