India, with its rich history and diverse culture, is equally rich with biodiversity. This diversity is complemented by the numerous types of cereals and species that are grown across the country. So let’s explore more about the richness that makes India an outstanding country.
The Staple of the Indian Diet
Cereals, as the seeds of the grasses, are the basic staple food consumed in India. India boasts a staggering variety, with some of the most prominent being:
Rice: Rice is the most popular cereal grain in the Indian diet. It comes in various types such as Basmati rice, which is famous for its pleasant smell, and Sona Masuri, considered for its softness. From the green fields of Kerala to the fertile plains of Punjab, this crop is grown all across the country.
Wheat: Another staple cereal is wheat, which is used in making rotis, parathas, breads, and a lot of other preparations. Harvested golden fields of wheat dancing under the sun are famous for the states of Punjab and Haryana in India, which play a crucial role in feeding the country.
Millets: These small-grained powerhouses, such as jowar also known as sorghum and bajra also known as pearl millet, are making a comeback due to their rich nutritional profile and ability to withstand drought conditions. Especially suitable for the climatic conditions of India, millets used to be common in many areas. Due to awareness of healthy eating and returning to indigenous crops, millets are slowly appearing on Indian plates again.
Maize (Corn): Corn, commonly consumed in animal feeds, is gradually making its way into snacking and local cuisines. Though not as prominent as the major cereals, corn is incorporated into the Indian diet, though not as commonly or as frequently in certain regions of the country.
Oats: Commonly known for their nutritional values, oats are widely used either as porridge or breakfast cereals. Relatively new to India’s breakfast palette, oats have risen to the occasion and targeted the health-conscious, urban populace.
India’s Biodiversity – Species Richness
India is one of the mega diverse countries among 12 countries of the world because it has much variety of plant and animal species. Here’s just a glimpse of this incredible diversity:
Mammals: Ranging from the regal Royal Bengal Tiger, the national animal, roaming across the jungles of Madhya Pradesh to the shy One-Horned Rhinoceros residing in the plains of Assam, India hosts more than 400 types of mammals only. The Himalayas also host specific mountain creatures such as the snow leopard and the bharal or blue sheep.
Birds: India is a paradise for bird watchers as the country is home to more than 1300 species. Some of the birds found in India are the national bird, the Indian peafowl, which is known for its colorful feathers, and the Great Indian Hornbill, which boasts of its large wings. From the Himalayan Griffon vulture soaring high in the Himalayas to the bright Malabar Grey Hornbill in the Western Ghats, India has them all.
Amphibians and Reptiles: India has a diverse population of frogs, snakes, lizards, and turtles with more than 400 species of amphibians and 600 species of reptiles. The Western Ghats boast the maximum amphibian species while the scorching deserts of Rajasthan have hardy lizards such as the Monitor Lizard and the Indian Sand Boa.
Plants: Different terrains characterize India, making it possible to host a variety of plants with over 45,000 species of flowering plants. The mighty Himalayas have alpine vegetation, and the tropical rainforests of the south have many species of plants endemic to the region. From the gorgeous flowers of the northeast to the magnificent banyan trees that can be found across the country, India’s flora is ever fascinating.
Why India is Special?
There are so many types and species of cereal crops that can be grown in India due to its diverse geographical areas and production systems. This variety offers several benefits:
Food Security: Availability of cereals provides adequate food supply to feed the large population of the country. As India has diverse crops that can be grown in different climates, food grains can be produced in large quantities, thus controlling imports.
Dietary Needs: It offers options for all dietary restrictions and preferences. Be it gluten-free millets or protein pulses, India’s food basket has it all in store for everyone. This leads to a rich, diverse, and healthy diet that adequately supports the population.
Economic Opportunity: These cereals and species are grown and traded in India and play a big role in boosting the economy. The agricultural sector plays an important role in supporting the livelihoods of millions of people in India and earning foreign exchange through the exportation of spices, basmati rice, among other agricultural produce.
Ecological Balance: The number and variety of different creatures that inhabit the world are thus important in regulating the natural environment. The pollinating insects which are necessary for the production of fruits and seeds, the large herbivores that control plant growth are all beneficial to the ecosystem. Such biodiversity is crucial for the sustainability of ecological systems in the country.
Conservation and Sustainability
Though India has a vast number of varieties of cereals and species, it becomes essential to conserve them for the next generation. It is currently threatened by climate change, loss of habitat, and improper use of agricultural practices.
Here are some efforts being made to preserve this rich heritage:
Conservation Programs: The Indian Government has done a lot to protect the endangered species and their abode through various conservation measures. National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and bioreserves are set up to serve as a shelter to flora and wildlife.
Sustainable Agriculture: Measures such as crop rotation, organic farming, and water conservation practices should be encouraged to minimize the effects of agriculture on the environment and sustainability of these cereals.
Community Involvement: Education and engagement of the local population are critical for the success of such projects. Raising farmers’ awareness of sustainable practices and cultivating their responsibility for the environment are important prerequisites.
India has an enormous and diverse number of cereals and species, which makes people proud of their country. The sustainable practices and the culture of conservation keep India’s diverse ecosystem alive, which will be beneficial for future generations.
