Scientific implications of HYV programme

Abstract

The contrast in the results achieved by the high-yielding varieties programme in wheat and in rice should show the path to be followed in future. In wheat the action programme for cultivation of the dwarf varieties was built on sound scientific knowledge. Research data on performance of the different varieties and on the changes needed in agronomic practices were gathered well in advance. In rice, by contrast, administrative action preceded development of scientific knowhow. For example, a major reason for the poor performance in Kerala was the wrong choice of the rice variety, namely, Tainan 3, the grains of which become sticky on cooking. The future of the high-yielding varieties programme thus depends on creating the requisite scientific and training bases capable of anticipating and finding prior solutions to the numerous problems which will arise from the spread of the new varieties. Besides the research and extension framework and production and supply of inputs in adequate quantities, what will determine the success of the programme is the attention paid to post-harvest technology, pricing and crop planning. All these factors will decide how remunerative cereal farming will be which, in turn, will influence farmers' selection of crops. We should plan now for a substantial reduction in acreage under crops like jowar and for introducing in the areas so released alternative land-use patterns.