India is facing climate challenges that threaten rice and wheat production due to unpredictable weather. Farmers like P. Ravinder Reddy are adopting climate-resilient seed varieties developed through agricultural research, which promise better yields and disease resistance. With rising hunger rates globally, quick adaptation to these resilient crops is vital. The Indian government is actively promoting these innovations, emphasizing the need for education, support, and sufficient funding for agricultural research in response to climate change.
India, renowned as one of the leading producers and consumers of wheat and rice, is facing significant challenges due to extreme weather conditions that jeopardize these crucial crops. In Rayanpet, a village located in the arid south of India, erratic rainfall and rising temperatures are altering farming practices dramatically. P. Ravinder Reddy, a farmer and former soldier, notes the difficulties in predicting rain patterns which have led to inconsistent germination of seeds due to either excessive rain or drought. Fortunately, advancements in agricultural research have led to the development of resilient rice seed varieties, which Reddy has begun utilizing on his farm. These seeds require less water and are more resistant to diseases, prompting Reddy to increase their use in anticipation of a shift towards entirely climate-resilient farming in the future. As climate change progresses, the need for improved agricultural methods has become more urgent. In light of a recent United Nations report indicating that over 700 million individuals experienced hunger last year, the creation of resilient seed varieties is a critical step in ensuring global food security. India, being particularly vulnerable to climatic impacts, necessitates these innovations to sustain its agricultural productivity and meet both domestic and export demands. India’s approximately 120 million farmers, predominantly managing small plots of land, are grappling with the hazards presented by fluctuating weather conditions and increased pest activity. While some are exploring natural farming alternatives aiming to preserve soil health and mitigate crop loss, these methods often result in reduced yields. Consequently, the Indian government is advocating for the deployment of climate-resilient seeds that promise to maintain agricultural productivity. Experts highlight various climate challenges affecting rice cultivation, including rising groundwater salinity, heavy downpours, prolonged droughts, and higher nighttime temperatures. Ashok Kumar Singh, a distinguished plant geneticist, emphasized, “We really need these seeds to deal with these multiple issues created by global warming.” He has overseen the development of numerous rice varieties that are pest-resistant and disease-tolerant. His institution has released over 2,000 climate-resilient seed varieties in the span of a decade, with support from the Indian Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched 109 climate-resilient seed varieties across various crops, aiming for at least 25% of India’s rice acreage to be cultivated with these seeds in the upcoming winter season. Research initiatives are not limited to India; similar programs are underway globally, focusing on developing climate-resilient crops in regions including Africa and Central America. However, to ensure that these advancements reach farmers effectively, it is crucial to provide education, financial support, and training on seed usage. Aditi Mukherji, a noted climate adaptation expert, remarked, “India’s green revolution succeeded because such services were available and well-coordinated by state and federal governments at that time.” Furthermore, there is a growing call for increased funding for agricultural research, highlighting the need for investment that corresponds to at least 1% of the agricultural GDP. As Reddy prepares for the upcoming sowing season, he expresses hope for the expansion of climate-resilient seed use on his farm, while also emphasizing the importance of fair pricing for farmers post-harvest.
The article discusses the challenges faced by Indian agriculture due to climate change, particularly focusing on the country’s staple crops, rice and wheat. With unpredictable weather patterns significantly affecting crop yields, agricultural scientists are emphasizing the development of resilient seed varieties. This is in response to both an immediate need for food security amidst rising hunger rates globally and a longer-term strategy to adapt farming practices to changing environmental conditions. The Indian government is promoting the adoption of these seeds, working to ensure accessibility and affordability for the farmer population.
In conclusion, as India continues to adapt to the realities of a warming climate, the development and dissemination of climate-resilient seeds emerge as a cornerstone in safeguarding food security. The collaborative efforts of agricultural scientists, government initiatives, and farmer engagement are essential to address the multifaceted challenges presented by climate change. Ensuring that farmers are equipped with the necessary resources and knowledge will be paramount for the successful implementation of these innovations in agricultural practices.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
