Summer Moong Farming Boosts Farmers’ Income, but Harms Environment — Know the Challenges and Solutions

India’s Food Security and Madhya Pradesh’s Role, After the Green Revolution, India achieved self-sufficiency in food grain production. Madhya Pradesh has played a key role in this, not just in grains but also in pulses and oilseeds. Now, farmers in the state are increasingly turning to horticulture crops, thanks to better access to micro-irrigation, electricity, and easy loans — all of which have helped raise their incomes.

Rising Summer Moong Cultivation and Its Environmental Impact:

Farmers in Madhya Pradesh are now growing moong (green gram) on a large scale during the summer. Earlier, it was mostly grown during the rainy season (Kharif) using natural rainfall, which also helped improve soil fertility due to nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the roots.

But growing moong in summer requires more irrigation, which is causing groundwater levels to drop. To prepare fields quickly, many farmers burn leftover crop residue (stubble), which increases air pollution. The state government has now banned stubble burning and plans to train farmers in better residue management techniques.

Chemical Use Poses Health and Soil Risks:

To harvest the crop faster, some farmers are using herbicides like Paraquat and Glyphosate. These chemicals can harm both human health and the environment. While they help in early harvesting, they also damage soil microbes and reduce natural soil fertility. Chemical residues in the food may also affect consumers' health.

Solutions and Expert Advice: Dr. Vijay Singh Tomar, former Vice-Chancellor of an agricultural university, suggests farmers adopt more sustainable farming practices:

Reduce the use of harmful chemicals in summer moong cultivation.

1. Use naturally maturing moong varieties.
2. Practice soil and water conservation.
3. Take advantage of government training and support programs.

Conclusion: Dr. Tomar believes that if Dr. M.S. Swaminathan were alive today, he would agree that farming should now focus not only on yield but also on protecting the environment and public health.
Farmers are encouraged to shift toward eco-friendly farming methods that ensure good production while also conserving water, maintaining soil quality, and safeguarding human health.

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