India is the seventh largest country in the world, spans 3,287,263 square km, stretching 3,214 km from north to south and 2,933 from east to west. It has a land frontier of 15,200 km and a coast line of 7,517 km. As most populous nation, India faces growing demands on its resources. Since independence in 1947, Indian agriculture has undergone a remarkable transformation.
Agriculture Growth
At independence, agriculture in India was largely subsistence-based, dependent on monsoons, with low productivity and traditional methods. The 1950s and 1960s saw land reforms, irrigation projects, and community development programmes, but growth remained modest. A major breakthrough came with Green Revolution in late 1960s, introducing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice, chemicals and fertilizers, and mechanization. Supported by irrigation and credit facilities, this made India self -sufficient in food grains by 1970s.The White Revolution in 1970s and 1980s boosted milk production, making India the largest milk producer in the world. Post-1990s, economic liberalization brought private investments, agro-export growth, and improved cold storage and transport facilities. Horticulture, fisheries, and poultry emerged as significant contributors. In recent years, digital platforms, mobile based advisories, and government schemes like PM-KISAN, and crop insurance expanded farmers’ access to markets and financial security. Food grain production rose from about 50 million tonnes in 1950-1951 to over 330 million tonnes in 2023-2024, making India the world’s second largest agriculture producer. Yet challenges remain in water management, soil health and farmers’ income.
Agriculture today blends tradition with technology, feeding a nation of 1.4 billion and contributing significantly to exports.
Virgin Land : Historically, in India, virgin land refers to uncultivated land granted for cultivation to encourage settlement and agriculture expansion. Virgin land plays a crucial role in understanding the land use policies and agricultural practices in historical context within India.
Nearly one sixth of India’s land is either barren or overgrown with wild vegetation. These are called wastelands which are economically unproductive, ecologically unsustainable and vulnerable to environmental deterioration. Ironically, these lands are further increasing in some states, including Odisha, Assam, and Telangana, due to natural factors and human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, over-cultivation, and unskilled irrigation.
A few years ago Jammu and Kashmir had the largest area of wasteland in the country, which was more than double that of Rajasthan. These two states are followed by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra in terms of maximum area of wasteland. Compared to Population growth in India, the country has much smaller geographical area, which generates the need for quick urbanization. Also large cattle population in the country is a major reason behind overgrazing of the farmlands.
Converting Virgin Land into Farmland : Conversion requires careful scientific planning to preserve soil health and ensure sustainable yields. The process begins with land survey and soil testing to assess texture, pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter content. Based on findings, soil amendments such as lime (for acidic soil) or gypsum (for alkaline soil) can be applied to optimize pH and structure. Land clearing should be done selectively to retain beneficial vegetation and prevent erosion. Organic matter enrichment through compost, green manure, or biofertilisers boosts soil fertility and microbial activity. Irrigation system such as drip or sprinkler methods should be planned based on water availability and crop needs. In areas with poor water retention, techniques like mulching and soil conditioners can improve moisture retention.
To establish a healthy farming ecosystem, integrated nutrient management (INM) and integrated pest management (IPM) should be applied from the outset to reduce chemical dependency. Initial crops can include hardy legumes or cover crops to build fertility before introducing high-value crops. This scientific approach ensures long-term productivity without degrading the newly cultivated land.
Wastelands can also be recovered through afforestation, water conservation, soil erosion and land slide control, and addressing nitrogen-phosphorous deficiencies using targeted plantation programs. These lands can contribute to economic and social development of the country.
Potential Uses of Virgin Land
1. Agriculture and Horticulture – If the soil quality and climate are suitable, virgin land can be developed into farmland for crops, fruits, vegetables, flowers, medicinal plants, and herbs can also be a profitable use. Before cultivation, soil testing should be carried out to assess fertility. To avoid overexploitation, crop rotation and natural fertilizers can maintain long-term productivity.
2. Agroforestry – It is a sustainable alternative to monoculture farming, which integrates trees and shrubs with crops or livestock. This approach improves soil fertility, prevents erosion, and enhances biodiversity. It also offers multiple income streams from timber, fruits, and nuts to honey and medicinal plants.
3. Livestock Grazing – For grass rich regions, controlled livestock grazing can be an effective use. Cattle, sheep, or poultry farming can provide milk, meat, wool, and eggs.
4. Renewable Energy Projects – If a location is suitable, virgin land can be used for solar farms or wind energy projects.
5. Eco-Tourism and Nature Conservation – Some virgin lands are better preserved than exploited. They can be termed into eco-tourism destinations such as wildlife sanctuaries, trekking routes, or camping sites. This creates jobs for local communities while promoting conservation.
6. Forestry and Timber Production – In forested virgin lands, sustainable timber harvesting can be implemented under strict management plans. Selective logging, replanting, and wildlife protection measures ensure that forest resources are used without depleting them.
7. Industrial or Infrastructure Development – In case where land is strategically located near transport routes or cities, it can be used for building factories, warehouses, or residential areas.
8. Scientific Research and Education – Virgin land offers an ideal setting for environmental studies, agriculture experiments, and biodiversity research. Universities, NGOs, and government agencies can use it for training and innovation in sustainable land management.
ILL-Effects of Pesticides : Pesticides, though useful for controlling pests and increasing crop yields, have several harmful effects on human health, the environment, and biodiversity. Prolonged exposure to pesticide residues in food and water can lead to chronic health issues, including cancer, hormonal imbalances, respiratory problems, and neurological disorders. Farm workers and nearby residents face the highest risk due to direct contact or inhalation during spraying. Environmentally, pesticides contaminate soil, reducing its fertility and disrupting beneficial microorganisms essential for plant growth. They also seep into water bodies through runoff, polluting rivers, lakes, and ground water, which affects aquatic life and poses risk to drinking water sources. Many pesticides are non-selective, killing beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, and earthworms, which are vital for pollination and soil health.
In long term, reliance on pesticides undermines sustainable agriculture and threatens food security. Promoting integrated pest management (IPM), organic farming, and biological pest control can reduce these ill effects while maintaining healthy eco system.
By Manoj Dubey
Principal (Retd.)
Delhi Public Schools
(The content of this article reflects the views of writers and contributors, not necessarily those of the publisher and editor. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only)
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