Green Revolution and GMOs
By Bobbi Crim
Causes and Results of the Bengal Famine
Causes of the famine include food shortages, but more of the hysteria from World War II contributed to the famine due to the lack of food as a priority (later to be exploited by Indian traders that hoarded food to sell at higher prices).
Results of the famine include The Green Revolution, as well as legislative measures to ensure that businessmen are unable to profit from hoarding food.
Basic Elements of the Green Revolution in India
Continued expansion of farming areas
Double-cropping existing farmland
Using seeds with improved genetics
Statistical Benefits
Yield per unit of farmland in India advanced by more than 30 percent (1947-1979).
Economic Results
India was able to fulfill repayment to the World Bank for loans taken out.
Countries, such as Canada, sought out assistance in agricultural areas, which enhanced India's foreign exchange earnings.
Sociological Results
Political Results
It was also a factor that caused the Indian National Congress to gain political authority in India
Limitations of the Green Revolution
India did not succeed in extending the notion of high yield value (HYV) seeds to all regions and crops.
There are still starving occurrences in India (due to reasons other that food availability).
It was not a 100 percent success.
Human Health Risks of Genetically Modified Organisms
- new allergies are made
- dietary needs are corrupted
- unpredictable long-term effects
- food has increased toxicity
- food has less nutritional value
Environmental Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms
- Increase use of pesticides and herbicides
- Cross pollination
- weeds are adapted "superweeds" to with insecticidal properties or herbicide-resistance
- insects become resistant to pesticides
- less biodiversity
- pollution of the water and soil
Advantages of Genetically Modified Organisms
- Creating plants better resistant to weeds, pest and other diseases
- Bigger yields to create more efficient use of land, less uses of herbicides and other pesticides.
- Foods with better texture, flavor and nutritional value.
- Foods with a longer shelf life for easier shipping.
- Finally, GM foods can create an essential sustainable way to feed the world
Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Organisms
- The safety of such products is not verified yet
- It could create more dietary restrictions, such as allergies or problems for vegetarians and vegans (if animal genes are put into plants, etc.)
- Adverse effects on the immune system
- Pesticide-enhanced food can create creatures that are immune to the pesticides
- The effects of genetic food engineering could be irreversible, and long-term affects are unknown
Bibliography for Photos
http://www.aboca.com/en/company/people-and-activities/farming-area
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dimna_Dam_during_monsoon_season.jpg
http://voices.nationalgeographic.com/2013/09/20/fighting-drought-with-a-new-super-corn/
http://www.eagledailyinvestor.com/12506/global-grain-production-up-commodities-traders-down/
http://asbarez.com/84367/economic-growth-hampered-by-agriculture/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_National_Congress
http://www.livebinders.com/play/play?id=1510304
http://www.marxist.com/gmo-human-need-corporate-greed.htm
http://civileats.com/2012/09/20/first-ever-long-term-stud-on-gmo-foods-should-have-you-worried/
http://ecowatch.com/2013/07/19/film-explores-consequences-global-food-monopoly/