With the possibility of El Niño conditions and a significantly delayed southwest monsoon (rainfall about 43% below normal), the Centre reviewed Kharif preparedness of the country.
Vulnerability of Indian agriculture to monsoon
- High Dependence on Rain-fed Agriculture: More than 60% of agricultural land is rain-fed, making monsoon rainfall the primary source of water for farming.
- Kharif Crop Dependence: The monsoon is crucial for major Kharif crops such as rice, cotton, maize, pulses and oilseeds.
- Water Security Concerns: Weak monsoons reduce water availability, affecting both Kharif and Rabi crops.
- Food Security Risks: Poor monsoon performance can lower agricultural production, resulting in food shortages, rising food prices and threats to national food security.
Measures Taken
- Water Conservation and Irrigation: Repair of ponds, reservoirs, check dams and farm ponds, along with rainwater harvesting and watershed development, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and the Rainfed Area Development (RAD).
- Crop Diversification: Promotion of climate-resilient crops, intercropping and mixed farming, with emphasis on pulses, millets and oilseeds.
- Weather Forecasting and Advisories: Timely advisories through 731 Krishi Vikas Kendras, Agro-Met services and Mission Mausam.
- Dryland Agriculture & Preparedness: Promotion of moisture-conservation practices, District Agriculture Contingency Plans (DACPs) and an El Niño Monitoring Cell for continuous monitoring and response.
