Farmers vs. Forecast: Changing Rainfall Patterns Spell Trouble for Crops!

Unpredictable rainfall patterns driven by climate change are posing significant challenges to agriculture worldwide. Farmers, especially in regions like the Indo-Gangetic Plains, are struggling with delayed monsoons, excessive downpours, and prolonged droughts. These shifts disrupt planting schedules, reduce crop yields, and threaten food security.

Flooding has become a priority concern, with projections indicating a 20% rise in extreme rainfall by mid-century. Concurrently, droughts are reducing soil moisture and nutrient levels, affecting crops like paddy, maize, and wheat. Farmers are taking steps such as crop diversification, sophisticated irrigation systems, and soil management practices to mitigate risks.

Experts emphasize the need for government support through subsidies for drought-resistant crops, water conservation projects, and training programs. Technological innovations like precision agriculture and weather forecasting tools are also vital for building resilience against these climate challenges.

Source: The Farming Insider, AHDB Reports