Wheat Revolution – 1968

The “Wheat Revolution” of 1968 marked a significant turning point in India’s agricultural landscape, particularly in wheat cultivation. Despite the long history of wheat cultivation in India, yields had remained low, leading to a widening gap between demand and supply, which was largely met through imports.

To address this issue, the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi introduced new varieties of wheat from Mexico in 1963. These varieties possessed genetic factors for dwarfing, which allowed for higher yields. Through collaboration with agricultural universities and state departments of agriculture, varieties such as Lerma Rojo and Sonora 64 were identified as high-yielding, with the potential to produce up to 6 tonnes per hectare.

The Government of India took swift action to import seeds of these varieties, leading to a rapid adoption of dwarf, fertilizer-responsive wheat varieties across the country. Within a short span, millions of hectares were brought under cultivation using these new varieties, leading to a dramatic increase in wheat production.

The impact of the Wheat Revolution extended beyond just increased yields. It also brought about a transformation in the agricultural practices and mindset of rural communities. New varieties like Kalyansona, Sharbati Sonora, Sonalika, Safed Lerma, and Chhoti Lerma further contributed to the success of the revolution, with more promising varieties in the pipeline.

The commemoration of the Wheat Revolution with a special postage stamp by the Posts and Telegraphs Department highlights its significance to India’s agricultural and economic prosperity, showcasing the successful synergy between scientific innovation, government action, and rural empowerment.