Surface Ozone Pollution Threatens India’s Food Security

Recent studies indicate that surface ozone pollution is impacting major food crops in India. Research from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur marks the risks posed to wheat, rice, and maize, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain and central India. This pollution threatens India’s progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of ‘no poverty’ and ‘zero hunger’ by 2030.

About Surface Ozone Pollution

Surface ozone is a potent oxidant that can damage plant tissues. It leads to visible injuries on leaves and reduces overall crop productivity. The research identifies this pollution as a lesser-known but serious threat to agriculture. Increased levels of ozone can hinder the growth of staple crops, which are vital for food security.

Impact on Major Crops

The study reveals alarming projections regarding crop yields. Under high-emission scenarios, wheat yields could decrease by an additional 20%. Rice and maize could also face yield reductions of around 7%. The Indo-Gangetic Plain and Central India are brought into light as particularly vulnerable areas, where ozone levels may exceed safe limits by six times.

Implications for Food Security

The findings suggest that the challenges posed by surface ozone pollution could jeopardise not only domestic food security but also global supplies. India is exporter of food grains to various Asian and African countries. Thus, the impact of reduced yields could ripple through international markets, affecting food availability worldwide.

Policy Recommendations

While India has initiated the National Clean Air Programme to combat urban air pollution, agricultural regions remain largely unaddressed. The research advocates for targeted policies to monitor and reduce ozone pollution specifically in farming areas. Effective emission reduction strategies are crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

Future Projections and Research Needs

Using data from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase-6 (CMIP6), the study assesses historical trends and future projections of ozone-induced yield losses. It stresses the need for further research to understand the long-term effects of ozone on agriculture and to develop adaptive strategies.

Call to Action

The study urges immediate actions to mitigate air pollution. It emphasises that without addressing atmospheric pollution, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty and hunger will be increasingly difficult. The protection of crop health is essential for safeguarding food security in India and beyond.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the relationship between air pollution and agricultural productivity in India.
2. Discuss the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals in the context of food security.
3. What are the potential impacts of climate change on crop yields in India? Critically analyse.
4. What measures can be adopted to reduce surface ozone pollution in agricultural regions? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the relationship between air pollution and agricultural productivity in India.

1. Air pollution, particularly surface ozone, damages plant tissues, leading to reduced crop yields.
2. High ozone levels are linked to yield losses in staple crops like wheat, rice, and maize.
3. Regions like the Indo-Gangetic Plain are particularly vulnerable due to high pollution levels.
4. Pollution affects not just crop health but also the economic viability of farming in affected areas.
5. Effective monitoring and mitigation strategies can enhance agricultural productivity by reducing pollution levels.

2. Discuss the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals in the context of food security.

1. The SDGs aim to eradicate poverty and hunger, directly linking to agricultural productivity and food security.
2. Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) emphasizes the need for sustainable food production systems and resilient agricultural practices.
3. Achieving these goals is threatened by factors like air pollution, which hampers crop yields.
4. Food security impacts not only domestic stability but also global food supply chains, particularly in developing nations.
5. Continued progress towards SDGs is essential for ensuring equitable access to food and resources.

3. What are the potential impacts of climate change on crop yields in India? Critically analyse.

1. Climate change can lead to altered rainfall patterns, affecting crop growth and water availability.
2. Increased temperatures may exacerbate the effects of air pollution, further reducing agricultural productivity.
3. Extreme weather events can cause crop damage and disrupt planting and harvesting schedules.
4. Long-term changes in climate could shift suitable agricultural zones, impacting food security.
5. Adaptation strategies, such as crop diversification and resilient farming practices, are necessary to mitigate these impacts.

4. What measures can be adopted to reduce surface ozone pollution in agricultural regions? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Implementing stricter emissions regulations for industries and vehicles to reduce precursor pollutants.
2. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices that minimize the use of nitrogen fertilizers, which contribute to ozone formation.
3. Increasing green cover and afforestation to improve air quality and reduce pollution levels.
4. Enhancing monitoring systems to track ozone levels and inform farmers about pollution risks.
5. Examples include India’s National Clean Air Programme, which could be expanded to target rural and agricultural areas specifically.