India’s Green Revolution began six decades ago with Norman Borlaug’s high-yield wheat varieties. Today, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) faces funding challenges. The recent closure of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has created a financial gap. CIMMYT is seeking support from India and other stakeholders to sustain its vital agricultural research.
Historical Context of India’s Green Revolution
Norman Borlaug introduced semi-dwarf, high-yield wheat varieties such as Lerma Rojo 64A and Sonora 63. These varieties transformed Indian agriculture by increasing wheat production and reducing dependence on imports. Indian scientists developed key varieties like Kalyan Sona, Sonalika, and PBW 343 from CIMMYT lines. This partnership helped India achieve self-sufficiency in wheat.
Current Funding Crisis at CIMMYT
USAID, CIMMYT’s largest donor, ceased operations in mid-2024. It contributed $83 million out of CIMMYT’s $211 million budget. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation remains the second-largest funder with $42 million. The funding shortfall threatens ongoing breeding programmes. CIMMYT appeals to India, which benefits greatly from its research, to increase financial support.
India’s Role in CIMMYT’s Research
India sows wheat on about 32 million hectares. Six of the top ten wheat varieties in India come from CIMMYT germplasm. Recent releases like DBW 303 have set yield records, exceeding eight tonnes per hectare. CIMMYT’s Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA), established in 2011 with Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), operates research stations in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar.
Innovations in Wheat and Maize Breeding
CIMMYT is developing wheat varieties tolerant to heat and diseases. Rising night temperatures reduce wheat yields by six percent per degree Celsius. New wheat lines carry biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) traits to retain soil nitrogen. This reduces fertiliser use by up to 20 percent. A maize doubled haploid facility in Karnataka produces pure inbred lines for hybrid breeding.
Strategic Importance of CIMMYT-India Collaboration
India contributes less than $1 million to CIMMYT’s budget despite its large stake in global wheat production. With USAID’s exit, India can influence global agricultural research by increasing funding. CIMMYT emphasises food security and peace, reflecting Borlaug’s Nobel Peace Prize legacy. Strengthening this partnership is crucial for adapting crops to climate change and sustaining yield gains.
Future Prospects and Research Focus
CIMMYT aims to release new wheat varieties with improved heat tolerance and nitrogen efficiency by 2027. These innovations will help Indian farmers cope with climate challenges. The organisation’s global network includes many Indian scientists, denoting India’s integral role. Continued collaboration will shape food security for India and beyond.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of the Green Revolution on India’s agricultural economy and rural society.
- Critically examine the role of international organisations like the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center in global food security.
- Explain the effects of climate change on crop yields and agricultural sustainability in India.
- With suitable examples, discuss the importance of public-private partnerships in agricultural research and development in India.
