Agriculture is one of the ancient occupations of
man. It provides food for the mankind. During 20th century the
population has been enormously increased. To cope up with increased population,
there was a need of rapid growth in agricultural production. The green
revolution in India initiated as technology mission increased agricultural
productivity during 1960s. Technology has played a big role in developing the
agricultural industry. Hybrid seeds, fertilizers and pesticides were
introduced. Tractors, tillers and other equipments were used. The food grain
production has been increased to comfortable level. Transportation and
marketing facilities have been increased. Cooling facilities have helped to
preserve vegetables for longer periods. Biotechnology is a boon to farmers.
Agricultural productivity is vital but
environmental protection is equally important. Due to the use of tractors, the
farmers stopped to use bullocks to till the land. In turn production and use of
organic manure was decreased. The use of fertilizers and pesticides has caused
soil pollution. Organic farming is once again getting importance. Due to the
over use of technology in agriculture, the cost of production of agricultural
products has been increased. The farmers are committing suicide which is a bad
trend. Now the concept of zero farming is getting importance. Due to irrigation
the nature of soil has been changed. The soil is losing its fertility. Due to
the increase of borewells, groundwater has been depleted in an alarming rate.
