Abstract
This paper examines the portrayal of the Green Revolution in Hindi literature, analyzing how this transformative period in Indian agriculture has been depicted in novels, short stories, and poetry. The Green Revolution, characterized by the introduction of high-yielding seed varieties, chemical fertilizers, and irrigation technologies, dramatically increased food production but also brought about significant social and environmental consequences.
Hindi literature offers a nuanced perspective on this complex phenomenon. While some works celebrate the increased yields and economic benefits that alleviated food scarcity, many others critically examine the negative impacts on rural communities. These include the displacement of small farmers due to increased costs and competition, the growing dependence on expensive inputs, and the erosion of traditional farming practices. Furthermore, the environmental degradation caused by the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, leading to soil and water contamination, is a recurring theme.
The study will focus on key literary texts that engage with the Green Revolution, exploring how writers have represented the changing landscape of rural India, the shifting power dynamics within agrarian society, and the psychological impact on individuals and communities. By analyzing the narratives, characters, and symbolism employed by Hindi writers, this paper aims to understand how literature has contributed to a critical understanding of the Green Revolution’s legacy, highlighting its successes alongside its often-overlooked social and ecological costs. The analysis will reveal the complex and multifaceted ways in which Hindi literature has engaged with the promises and perils of technological progress in the agricultural sector.