Q1: Why is there a push for crop diversification away from paddy cultivation?
A1: Crop diversification is encouraged to address environmental concerns like soil depletion, water table reduction, and to combat the air pollution crisis exacerbated by paddy stubble burning.
Q2: How can crop diversification benefit farmers and the environment?
A2: It promotes sustainable agriculture, reduces dependency on a single crop, conserves water, improves soil health, and decreases the incidence of crop burning and related pollution.
Q3: What steps are being taken to encourage crop diversification in India?
A3: The government is providing incentives to farmers for adopting alternative crops, developing infrastructure for diversified farming, and implementing policies to reduce paddy cultivation.
Q4: What are the challenges in moving away from paddy cultivation?
A4: Challenges include farmers’ reliance on paddy due to assured MSP, lack of awareness of alternative crops, and the need for new agricultural practices and market support.
Q5: What alternative crops are suggested for diversification?
A5: Alternatives include less water-intensive crops such as pulses, oilseeds, and millets, which also offer nutritional benefits and have the potential for high economic returns.
Q6: What are the expected outcomes of successful crop diversification?
A6: It aims to create a balanced ecosystem, ensure food and nutritional security, support economic resilience, and mitigate climate change impacts.
Q7: What is the role of government policy in crop diversification?
A7: Government policy is crucial, offering subsidies for alternative crops, ensuring purchase at MSP, and providing technical support for new agricultural methods.
Q8: What are the economic incentives for farmers to diversify crops?
A8: Incentives include guaranteed MSP for diversified crops, subsidies for agricultural inputs for alternative crops, and financial support for adopting new farming techniques.
Q9: How is crop diversification linked to India’s environmental goals?
A9: Crop diversification is integral to India’s commitments to sustainable agriculture under various environmental agreements and its national policies on water conservation and air quality improvement.
SRIRAM’s
