Describe the various Technology Missions initiated in Indian agriculture and examine their role in food security. (Answer in 150 words)

- Describe the various Technology Missions initiated in Indian agriculture and examine their role in food security. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
Technology Missions in Indian agriculture were launched to overcome crop-specific productivity constraints through coordinated interventions in research, inputs, processing, marketing and extension.
Body
Major Technology Missions:
1. Technology Mission on Oilseeds (1986): Promoted improved seeds, irrigation, price support and processing to reduce edible-oil imports.
2. Technology Mission on Pulses: Extended technological support to pulses to improve productivity and protein availability.
3. Technology Mission on Cotton (2000): Focused on better varieties, pest management, modernization of ginning and improved marketing.
4. Jute Technology Mission: Improved cultivation, processing, diversification and market competitiveness of jute.
5. Horticulture Technology Missions: Especially in the Northeast and Himalayan regions, promoted fruits, vegetables, spices and post-harvest infrastructure.
Role in Food Security:
- Increased crop productivity and domestic availability.
- Encouraged diversification beyond cereals, strengthening nutritional security.
- Reduced import dependence in commodities such as edible oils.
- Improved farmers’ incomes through better processing and marketing.
- Strengthened resilience through improved technologies and crop varieties.
Conclusion
Thus, Technology Missions have broadened food security from mere cereal availability towards nutrition, diversification and agricultural self-reliance.