In the dynamic landscape of contemporary journalism, editorials serve as fertile ground for critical analysis, offering a platform for the dissemination of diverse perspectives on critical issues. “Seeds for Growth,” the subject of this editorial analysis, is a powerful piece that delves into the metaphorical seeds that hold the potential for societal and individual growth. Editorials such as this one often act as intellectual catalysts, planting ideas and insights that can germinate into meaningful conversations, policy changes, and informed decisions. This analysis will explore the key themes and arguments presented in “Seeds for Growth,” shedding light on its implications for both the current socio-political climate and the broader human experience.
Tag: GS Paper-2: Government policies & interventions.
GS Paper-3: Food security; E-technology in the aid of farmers.
Exam View:
Indian agriculture; Challenges; The Indian seed industry; Seed Technology.
Context:
New seed technologies supported by scientific validation and enabling regulatory mechanisms offer significant advantages for sustainable agriculture at little additional cost.
Decoding the editorial: Indian agriculture
Challenges
- Coarse cereals, pulses, oilseeds and vegetables
- The demand for these has not fully been met.
- They are not affordable for a large part of the population.
- All this has led to a high proportion of the under or malnourished population, with a sizable percentage of child wasting (19.3 percent).
- Increasing profitability in agriculture.
- Increasing share of exports in the world market.
- Closing the gap between potential and achievable productivity in most grain crops and vegetables.
- Reducing the cost of production.
- Promoting cultivation and consumption of nutritionally-rich crops like millets.
- Focusing on the quality of the agricultural produce.
- Depleting natural resources, a burgeoning population, extreme weather conditions and natural disasters because of climate change.
The Indian seed industry
- The focus of the seed industry should be:
- To promote varieties and technologies to combat the serious threats posed by climate change.
- To effectively utilise every available technology including traditional knowledge in agriculture.
Seed Technology
- R&D efforts of the public and private sectors can complement each other in developing environment-friendly, better-performing seeds at affordable costs.
- The cost of seed is typically ~3 to 6 percent of the total cost of production, though it can contribute up to 15-20 percent yield advantage over and above the genetic potential under different cultivation conditions.
- The use of farm-saved seed, which was estimated to be >60 percent even a decade ago, is reducing considerably.
- An encouraging trend of public-private partnership (through licensing agreements) has emerged in the last 10 to 15 years.
- This has improved both Variety Replacement Rates (VRR) and Seed Replacement Rates (SRR) in field crops and vegetables (ISC, 2023).
- In this scenario, sustainable seed technologies, available with the private sector can further boost the planting value of seeds.
- Crop variety development will become faster and more precise in the coming years by using technologies. These technologies would comprise:
- Genetic manipulation in variety development, subject to regulatory compliances.
- Priming or physiological advancement protocols
- These are especially beneficial in agro-eco-regions that frequently experience moisture, temperature, and other abiotic stressors, or are prone to diseases and pest damages.
- Such treatments can work independently or complement the genotype of the seed in a manner that enhances its overall performance.
- Film coating, pelleting with or without active formulations
- Incorporation of pesticide formulations through film coating on seed can reduce the amount and cost substantially and provide better protection during germination and vegetative growth stages.
- Seed treatments with biologicals, or chemical pesticides having contact or systemic mode of action.
- Bio-stimulants and nutrients for higher germination and faster seedling establishment.
- Incorporation of AI responsive sensors/substances in seed to help modulate plant responses to external stimuli; and
- Production of “clean and green” planting materials in horticultural crops.
- Supportive regulatory guidelines will go a long way in the adoption and popularisation of seed technologies.
- “Next Gen” technologies may also introduce AI-based responses from seeds, which will require appropriate guidelines for application.
- The Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control Order, 1985, has been amended to Fertiliser (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) (Control) Amendment Order, 2021 now includes bio-stimulants, which is an important component in seed-enhancement technology.
- Modifications are needed to include coated/pellet seed under the Certified Seed (CS) category.
- At present coated seeds can be sold only as Truthfully labelled (TL) seed.
- New seed technologies supported by scientific validation and enabling regulatory mechanisms offer significant advantages for sustainable agriculture at little additional cost.
- A robust regulatory mechanism covering quality seedlings and planting materials is needed under the newly proposed “Clean Green Mission” by the Government of India as part of its G20 commitment to “Green Development”.
The Indian government, quite rightly, is promoting technology-enabled sustainable farming, including natural, regenerative and organic systems, during its G20 presidency.
Source: Indian Express
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the central message of the editorial “Seeds for Growth”?
A: The central message of the editorial is to emphasize the idea that society and individuals hold the potential for growth and positive change, similar to how seeds, when nurtured, can grow into something remarkable. It calls for fostering the right conditions for growth in various aspects of life.
2. How does the editorial use the metaphor of “seeds” to convey its message?
A: The editorial employs the metaphor of “seeds” to symbolize the latent potential within society and individuals. Just as seeds require the right environment, care, and nurturing to flourish, the editorial suggests that nurturing education, innovation, and social support systems can unlock our potential for growth.
3. What examples are given in the editorial to support its arguments about growth and potential?
A: The editorial provides examples of individuals and communities that have experienced transformation and growth through initiatives like education reform, entrepreneurship, and social programs. It highlights the positive impact of such efforts in unlocking hidden potential.
4. What relevance does this editorial have in the current socio-political context?
A: In the context of today’s world, marked by various challenges and opportunities, this editorial is relevant as it encourages a proactive and optimistic approach to addressing societal issues. It suggests that by recognizing and nurturing our potential, we can navigate and overcome current challenges effectively.
5. What actions or changes does the editorial propose for harnessing our growth potential?
A: The editorial advocates for investment in education, innovation, and community support programs. It encourages individuals and societies to create environments that nurture talent, foster creativity, and provide opportunities for growth. By doing so, it suggests we can unlock the full potential within us and our communities.
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