The Interconnection between Indian Agriculture and Climate Change

 India is a land of agriculture. From ancient times, we have thrived on the agricultural sector, with rich soil and diverse crop production. However, there have been alarming signals of the impact of climate change on Indian agriculture. These signs cannot be ignored as they challenge food security in the future, which relies on the production of sufficient food to feed an increasing population.

Let’s see how agriculture and climate change are interconnected:

The Problems

Food Insecurity

It is not a surprise that many areas of the country do not have access to nutritious food and suffer from food scarcity. It is the basic right of a human being to have access to sufficient food to fulfil their daily needs.

Increasing Pressure

There is increasing pressure on the agriculture sector to intensify the process of crop production to meet the demand of a rising population. There has been a significant increase in the consumption of animal products as well in recent times. This results in high GHG emissions in the environment. Due to the use of agricultural inputs, irrigation, and soil disturbance, the agriculture sector is one of the major contributors to greenhouse gases.

Climate Change

In return, the agricultural sector is worst hit by climate change. Indian agriculture has witnessed several seasons of dry spells, heavy rainfall, and heatwaves. Rising temperatures are affecting the crop yield and inhibiting the ability of the crop to absorb moisture.

The Solutions

Diversification

Diversifying from the current agricultural system to more sustainable agriculture is one of the best ways to counter climate change. Crop diversification has many benefits, like increasing the nutritional value of the food system, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving soil quality.

Organic Agricultural Inputs

Using organic fertilisers and soil enhancers helps a lot in addressing climate change. Farmers can use alternative low-external input agriculture by using local resources. Smart farming techniques can help in restoring the plants' nutrition through a balanced approach.

Digital Agriculture

Technology is helping in every field, and agriculture is not an exception. Using agriculture support systems like weather advisors and market intelligence can help farmers make more profit and practice sustainable farming. Efficient use of existing resources and utilizing the research data available for agriculture can be an efficient tool to create a change in the agricultural sector.

Innovative farming practices are the need of the hour that can counter climate change in the best possible way.