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#FoodSecurity

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India’s Second National Gene Bank: A Promising Step Towards Securing the Future of Food and Nutrition

On February 1, 2025, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a major initiative aimed at securing India’s agricultural future—a second National Gene Bank. This move is designed to bolster food and nutritional security for the country. It aims to safeguard India's agricultural biodiversity through the conservation of over 10 lakh germplasm lines. This announcement, part of the Union Budget for 2025-26, marks a significant step forward in preserving India's rich agricultural heritage for generations to come.Understanding the Role of a Gene BankA gene bank acts as a sanctuary for genetic material. In this context, it includes seeds, tissues, and pollen from various plant species. Its primary purpose is to protect these genetic resources from potential extinction, ensuring they remain available for research, conservation, and crop improvement. By storing vital plant genetic resources, gene banks play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity, enabling future agricultural innovations and sustainable practices.India’s first gene bank, set up in 1996, was a pioneering step in preserving agricultural resources. Located in New Delhi, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) oversees this facility, which operates 12 regional stations across the country. This gene bank stores a wide range of germplasm collections, supporting plant breeding, research, and conservation efforts.India’s Expanding Efforts in Genetic ConservationThe announcement of the second National Gene Bank marks an expansion of India’s commitment to preserving its agricultural diversity. The new facility will provide conservation support to both public and private sectors, helping ensure food security by maintaining a diverse array of genetic resources.Internationally, India’s efforts are complemented by institutions such as the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). Since its establishment in 1972, ICRISAT has made significant strides in preserving genetic diversity, focusing on 11 crucial crops like sorghum, millets, chickpea, and groundnut. Its Genebank in Hyderabad, launched in 2019, became the first in the world to be entirely solar-powered. This achievement reflects the growing global trend of sustainable agricultural practices.The second National Gene Bank, once operational, will house an extensive collection of over 10 lakh germplasm lines, a critical resource for sustaining India’s agricultural future. The existing National Gene Bank at ICAR-NBPGR, refurbished and expanded in 2021, already stores nearly half a million accessions of cereals, legumes, millets, oilseeds, and vegetables. These collections serve as a bio-repository for essential plant genetic material, which can be used in breeding programs to improve crop resilience and nutritional content.A Global Vision for Genetic DiversityIndia’s gene bank initiative is part of a larger global effort to safeguard crop diversity. The ICRISAT Gene Bank, with additional centers in Zimbabwe, Niger, and Kenya, is one of the most significant contributors to this global mission. It is a critical resource for the preservation of crops suited for semi-arid regions, which are increasingly vulnerable to climate change.India’s second National Gene Bank is a groundbreaking step towards preserving biodiversity and ensuring long-term food security. By investing in the conservation of genetic resources, India is paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future.

3 Feb 2025
Good News

Smart Farming: AI-Powered NIRS Devices Revolutionize Crop Testing

In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (Icrisat) have revolutionized crop testing by combining artificial intelligence (AI) with pocket-size near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices. This innovative approach enables farmers to instantly evaluate crop health and nutritional quality directly in their fields, simplifying the testing process like never before. Cost-Effective and Efficient Traditionally, assessing the nutritional quality of grains and feedstock was a time-consuming process, often taking weeks and involving manual or partially automated methods in laboratory settings. However, the introduction of mobile NIRS devices has dramatically changed the landscape. These devices are not only more cost-effective but can also assess over 150 samples per day, providing timely and accurate insights to farmers. AI driven portable crop testing device Source: Google images Empowering Nutrient-Dense Crop Production Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes, Director General of Icrisat, emphasizes the transformative potential of this technology in enhancing nutrient-dense crop production. By expediting the breeding of nutrient-rich varieties and integrating them into the value chain, these tools act as catalysts for promoting healthier food options. The ultimate goal is to ensure quality assurance for the distribution of nutritionally fortified crops, ensuring they reach those who need them most. Promoting Quality-Based Payments and Market Systems The adoption of portable technology for assessing grain quality is not just about efficiency; it's also about democratizing market systems. Sean Mayes, Global Research Director of the Accelerated Crop Improvement Program at Icrisat, highlights the role of NIRS devices in decentralizing market systems and promoting quality-based payments. This benefits food producers, grain processing industries, and farmers by ensuring fair compensation and incentivizing the production of high-quality crops. Towards Decentralization and Democratization By equipping farmers with the necessary tools to assess crop health and nutritional content directly in the field, a shift towards a more inclusive and transparent agricultural ecosystem is underway. This initiative not only encourages the consumption of nutrient-rich cereals but also cultivates sustainable farming practices, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike. As we enter a new era of crop testing, powered by AI and NIRS technology, the possibilities for improving agricultural productivity and nutrition are endless.By harnessing innovative solutions, farmers can be empowered, food security can be enhanced, and sustainable agricultural practices can be promoted on a global scale. This collaborative effort aims to revolutionize the methods of testing, growing, and consuming crops, thereby paving the way for a healthier and more resilient future.

9 May 2024
Good News

Flying Crops: Krishi Udan Scheme 2.0 Promotes Perishable Agricultural Produce Transportation

In a move to give a thrust to agriculture, the central government plans to add 21 more airports under the Krishi Udan scheme to facilitate faster movement of agricultural produce in northeastern, hilly and tribal regions. The scheme has already enabled the transportation of perishable agricultural products like lemon, jackfruit, and grapes from northeastern states to other parts of India, as well as countries like Germany, the UK, Singapore, and the Philippines.  The Airports Authority of India provides several waivers, including landing charges, parking charges, and route navigation facility charges to cargo aircraft to promote the transportation of perishable agricultural produce from these regions under the Krishi Udan scheme 2.0, launched in October 2021.  The usage of drones in the agriculture sector is also gaining importance, beyond just spraying pesticides to seeding, carrying out surveys, and other areas. The government has released standard operating procedures for the use of drones in pesticide and nutrient application, and there are reports of farmers saving around 20% of their cost of application and reduction in health hazards associated with manual spraying. During the G20 summit, India plans to come out with a new roadmap for the development of agriculture. The summit is discussing food security and nutrition, sustainable agriculture, inclusive agricultural value chains, food supply systems, and digitization of agriculture. These efforts have the potential to transform the agricultural landscape of the country and provide a better future for farmers and rural communities, creating new opportunities for growth and development.

16 Feb 2023
Good News

Positive Reads

Electric Farming: How Electricity is Helping Plants Thrive!

With climate change and dwindling resources threatening global food security, scientists are searching for innovative ways to boost agricultural productivity. One of the more surprising breakthroughs? Electric soil. By applying electric currents to the soil, researchers have found they can enhance plant growth, improve nutrient uptake, and strengthen crop health. This cutting-edge method could be a game-changer, opening the door to more sustainable farming practices that use fewer resources while increasing yields.A Jolt of Growth: How Electric Soil WorksLeading the charge in this exciting area of research is Dr. Eleni Stavrinidou, an associate professor at Linköping University in Sweden. Her team made a startling discovery: barley seedlings exposed to electrically charged soil grew 50% more in just 15 days compared to those grown in regular soil. By using a biodegradable, conductive material known as PEDOT (a polymer), mixed with cellulose (a component of plant cell walls), they created what’s now being called “eSoil.”The concept is simple but powerful: stimulate the roots with electricity to promote faster growth. However, the exact biological mechanisms behind this accelerated growth remain unclear. “We’ve seen seedlings process nitrogen more effectively, but we don’t yet fully understand how electrical stimulation impacts this process,” Stavrinidou explains. Despite these uncertainties, the results are promising—and could have far-reaching implications for future farming.Source: Google ImagesHydroponics and Urban FarmingBefore diving deeper into electric soil, it’s worth exploring hydroponics—an innovative farming technique that has already been gaining momentum, particularly in urban environments. In hydroponic systems, plants are grown without soil, relying instead on nutrient-rich water solutions. This method is not only space-efficient, making it ideal for cities, but it also conserves water by recirculating it, ensuring that plants receive only what they need. Hydroponics holds great potential in addressing global food security, especially in areas where traditional farming is impossible due to space constraints or arid conditions. And when combined with eSoil, the future of agriculture could look vastly different—one that’s not only more efficient but also far less dependent on natural resources like soil and water.What sets eSoil ApartThe unique combination of electrical conductivity and environmental sustainability makes eSoil stand apart from traditional growing methods. The PEDOT-cellulose blend used in Stavrinidou’s study isn’t just good for plant growth; it’s also biodegradable and consumes less energy during production than the mineral wool commonly used in hydroponic systems. This means that not only can eSoil help plants grow faster and stronger, but it’s also a greener alternative to existing methods.Food Security and Sustainable AgricultureAs the global population continues to rise, food security is becoming an increasingly pressing concern. Climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation all contribute to the challenges faced by farmers worldwide. These issues not only drive up food prices but also increase the risk of hunger and malnutrition in vulnerable communities.Innovative solutions like electric soil offer a promising way forward. By using less water, fewer nutrients, and less energy, eSoil can help farmers produce more food with fewer resources. When combined with other sustainable agricultural practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and efficient water management, it could play a critical role in addressing the world’s food needs.A Glimpse into Future FarmingThe implications of eSoil extend beyond Earth. In the future, as humans look to establish colonies on the Moon or Mars, efficient food production will be critical. Techniques like electric soil, which require fewer resources and accelerate plant growth, could be essential for sustaining life in space. Even on long-term space missions, where food production is a challenge, eSoil could provide a practical solution.Looking ahead, there’s still much to learn about how electrical stimulation impacts different types of plants and nutrients. As Stavrinidou notes, “This study is just the tip of the iceberg, and there’s a lot of potential for new research in this area.” She believes that eSoil could open up exciting new avenues for developing more advanced hydroponic systems, as well as other innovative agricultural techniques.The possibilities are electrifying, and they all start with a simple jolt of electricity in the soil.

11 Oct 2024
Positive Reads

MS Swaminathan: The Pioneering Architect of India's Green Revolution

In the annals of India's agricultural history, one name stands out as the visionary behind the nation's remarkable transformation in the field—MS Swaminathan. Often referred to as the "father of India's Green Revolution," Swaminathan's tireless efforts and scientific innovations have played a pivotal role in ensuring food security for millions and revolutionizing farming practices for sustainable growth. Born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, Swaminathan's journey as a scientist and agricultural leader began with his pursuit of a doctorate in genetics from the University of Cambridge. However, it was his return to India and his work at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in the 1960s that would leave an indelible mark on the country's agricultural landscape. The Green Revolution, a period of remarkable agricultural growth that began in the mid-1960s, was Swaminathan's brainchild. Faced with the challenge of feeding a rapidly growing population, he championed the use of high-yielding varieties of seeds, along with improved irrigation and modern farming techniques, to boost crop production. His research and advocacy efforts focused on wheat and rice, two staple crops crucial for India's food security. Swaminathan's groundbreaking work in developing and promoting high-yielding varieties such as the "Miracle Rice" and "Miracle Wheat" not only increased crop yields but also helped alleviate poverty and hunger. Farmers who adopted these improved varieties experienced significant improvements in their livelihoods, leading to a transformative impact on rural communities across the country. However, Swaminathan's contributions extended beyond crop varieties. He recognized the importance of integrated farming systems, where agriculture is combined with animal husbandry, fisheries, and forestry to create sustainable and holistic farming practices. His emphasis on agroecological approaches, organic farming, and conservation of biodiversity further solidified his reputation as a champion of sustainable agriculture. Swaminathan's philosophy was rooted in the idea of "evergreen revolution," which aimed to ensure that agriculture not only meets the present needs but also sustains future generations. He advocated for the empowerment of small-scale farmers, women, and marginalized communities, emphasizing the need for equitable access to resources, knowledge, and technology. Throughout his career, Swaminathan had held several key positions, including serving as the Director-General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Chairman of the National Commission on Farmers. His expertise and influence extended beyond India's borders, as he had played an instrumental role in shaping global agricultural policies and fostering international collaborations. Recognized with numerous accolades and honors, Swaminathan's contributions had earned him the moniker "Father of the Green Revolution in India." His work had not only transformed India's agricultural landscape but has also inspired similar initiatives in other developing countries facing food security challenges. Today, as India grapples with new agricultural and environmental challenges, Swaminathan's vision remains as relevant as ever. His emphasis on sustainable farming practices, climate-resilient crop varieties, and farmer-centric policies continues to guide agricultural research and development efforts in the country. As we reflect on the achievements of MS Swaminathan, it becomes evident that his legacy extends far beyond scientific breakthroughs. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of farmers, food security, and sustainable development has left an indelible imprint on India's agricultural narrative. The lessons learned from his pioneering work will continue to shape the future of Indian agriculture, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.

4 Oct 2023
Positive Reads

Star Citizens

Farmers in Idukki's High-Range Tap Wild Tamarind for Food Security

In a remarkable display of resourcefulness, farmers in Idukki's high-range region have found a unique way to put food on their tables by tapping into the abundance of wild tamarind trees. This indigenous variety of tamarind, known for its higher sour content and larger size, has become a valuable asset for the local community. The village of Pulikathadam, located nearly 10km from Moolamattom town, in Kerala, has been blessed with naturally growing tamarind trees that have been providing a bountiful harvest for generations. These trees, some of which are over a century old, have become an integral part of the village's identity. Raveendran T S, an early settler and farmer, shared his experience of arriving in Pulikathadam in 1964 and discovering the abundance of Malabar tamarind trees. These trees had grown naturally over time from fallen seeds, requiring no cultivation. Today, Raveendran harvests around 600kg of tamarind annually from his 250 trees. The farmers in this region have turned the wild tamarind into a source of income by smoke-drying the harvested fruits and selling them to local traders from Moolamattom. The tamarind is then distributed outside the district and even sold to pharmaceutical companies for medicinal preparations. The resilient nature of dried tamarind allows farmers to store it for years, providing a safety net during times of financial strain or when prices soar. The prices of tamarind have seen a rise this year, reaching up to 180/kg compared to 160-170/kg last year. The wild tamarind trees of Pulikathadam not only contribute to the farmers' livelihoods but also serve as a testament to the region's rich biodiversity. With their sustainable agricultural practices, these farmers are ensuring food security while preserving the natural resources of their community.  

22 Oct 2023
Star Citizens

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