Govt of India Waives Penalties for Tobacco Growers UPSC

FCV TOBACCO

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Context: The Government of India has taken measures to support Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) Tobacco growers in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka who faced challenges during the current crop season.

Details

Andhra Pradesh		●The MICHAUNG cyclone in December 2023 caused heavy rains in Andhra Pradesh, affecting the FCV tobacco crop in several districts. ●To assist FCV Tobacco growers in Andhra Pradesh, the Government has approved an interest-free loan of Rs 10,000 from the Grower Welfare Fund of the Tobacco Board. This one-time loan is specifically for the Andhra Pradesh Crop Season 2023-24 and is aimed at providing relief to growers whose crops were damaged due to cyclonic rains.
Karnataka		●The State Government of Karnataka has declared drought in all FCV tobacco-growing taluks except for 2, impacting the livelihoods of FCV Tobacco growers in the state. ●In light of the drought declaration and its impact on growers, the Government of India has decided to permit the sale of FCV Tobacco on the Tobacco Board's auction platform. Additionally, penalties on the sale of excess production by registered growers and unauthorized production by unregistered growers for the Karnataka Crop Season 2023-24 have been waived off.
Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) Tobacco
Key Points		Details
Geographical Area		●Mainly cultivated in specific regions of the world, including the United States, Brazil, Zimbabwe, India, China, and more.
Climate		●Requires a warm and sunny climate with well-defined seasons. FCV tobacco is typically grown in areas with a temperature range of 70-85°F (21-29°C).
Soil Type		●Thrives in well-drained, sandy loam or loamy soil.
Growing Season		●Typically grown as an annual crop with a growing season that varies by region but generally spans from late spring to early autumn.
Curing Process		●The tobacco is cured using a flue-curing method, involving controlled exposure to heat and air. This process imparts the characteristic bright and sweet flavour.
Harvesting		●Harvested when the leaves reach maturity, usually by priming the lower leaves first and then progressively harvesting higher leaves.
Tobacco Characteristics		●FCV tobacco is known for its bright, lemon-yellow to orange colour and high sugar content, resulting in a sweet and mild flavour.

Conclusion

Managing FCV tobacco demands a nuanced perspective that addresses the diverse concerns of stakeholders. Sustainable practices, ongoing research, and innovation are vital for optimizing its economic benefits while mitigating social and environmental drawbacks. Striking a balance will be essential for fostering a responsible and resilient FCV tobacco industry.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. The name "Flue-Cured Virginia" refers to:

(A) The specific region in Virginia where the tobacco originated.

(B) The colour of the cured leaves and the use of flues in the drying process.

(D) A fertilizer mixture used for the crop.

Answer: B

Explanation:

The term "Flue-Cured" indicates the specific curing method employed, where the tobacco leaves are hung in enclosed barns with flues (ducts) that allow the controlled flow of hot air. This method results in the leaves developing a bright colour during the curing process. "Virginia" refers to the type of tobacco and does not necessarily mean it originates exclusively from the state of Virginia. Therefore, option (B) accurately describes the process and characteristics associated with Flue-Cured Virginia tobacco.