UPSC GS Paper 3 model answer on Technology Missions in Indian agriculture

3. Describe the various Technology Missions initiated in Indian agriculture and examine their role in food security. (Answer in 150 words)

Introduction

Technology Missions in Indian agriculture follow a mission-mode approach that combines research, improved seeds, farm mechanisation, extension services and post-harvest management to raise productivity and address gaps in the agricultural sector.

Major Technology Missions

• Oilseeds & Pulses: The Technology Mission on Oilseeds and Pulses (TMOP) and subsequent initiatives such as NMEO-Oilseeds and Oil Palm promote improved seeds, fallow-land utilisation and greater domestic production to reduce import dependence.
• National Food Security Mission (NFSM): Promotes improved seeds, micronutrients and farm machinery for cereals, pulses and coarse grains.
• Horticulture – MIDH: Uses protected cultivation, tissue culture and cold-chain infrastructure to increase production and reduce post-harvest losses.
• Agricultural Extension & Mechanisation: NMAET/SMAM promotes modern extension services and Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) for wider access to farm machinery.
• Digital Agriculture Mission: Platforms such as AgriStack and Krishi-DSS support precision and data-driven farming.

Role in Food Security

• Higher production: Raises agricultural productivity and food availability.
• Nutritional security: Promotes pulses, coarse cereals, fruits and vegetables, diversifying diets.
• Climate resilience: Improved seeds and efficient resource use help withstand droughts and other climate shocks.

Conclusion

Thus, Technology Missions have helped India move beyond mere food availability towards a food system that is productive, diversified, nutritionally secure and climate-resilient.