How Indian agriculture has been transformed from food scarcity to food surplus level ? Explain the various government policies implemented for diversification of Indian agriculture. (Answer in 250 words)

- How Indian agriculture has been transformed from food scarcity to food surplus level ? Explain the various government policies implemented for diversification of Indian agriculture. (Answer in 250 words)
Introduction
At Independence, India faced chronic food shortages and depended heavily on imports. Through technological change, institutional reforms and state support, it gradually achieved foodgrain self-sufficiency and surplus production.
Body
From Scarcity to Surplus:
1. Green Revolution: HYV seeds, irrigation, fertilizers and mechanisation sharply increased wheat and rice productivity.
2. Institutional Support: MSP, procurement, FCI and Public Distribution System created price assurance and food stocks.
3. Irrigation Expansion: Major dams, canals and groundwater development reduced monsoon dependence.
4. Research and Extension: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutions and agricultural universities spread improved technologies.
5. Credit and Inputs: Cooperative credit, Kisan Credit Cards, fertilizer support and crop insurance strengthened farm investment.
6. Consequently, India moved from dependence on PL-480 imports to becoming a major producer and exporter of several agricultural commodities.
Policies for Diversification:
1. Crop Diversification Programme under PM-RKVY promotes shifts from water-intensive paddy towards pulses, oilseeds, millets and other crops.
2. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) promotes fruits, vegetables and high-value crops.
3. National Food Security and Nutrition Mission encourages pulses and nutri-cereals.
4. National Mission on Edible Oils promotes oilseeds and oil palm to reduce import dependence.
5. Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses aims at self-sufficiency in pulses.
6. Millets, agroforestry, natural farming and FPOs further diversify farm incomes.
Conclusion
Thus, India’s agricultural transformation must now move from foodgrain security to nutritional, income and ecological security through diversified and sustainable farming.