The upcoming rabi (winter) season is likely to be challenging for rainfed areas due to the El Nino weather pattern, and foodgrain production could be affected, Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra said on Monday.
Addressing a two-day national conference on preparedness for the rabi season, Chandra said the kharif season was also very challenging, particularly in rainfed areas. Several States struggled first to achieve crop coverage and later to ensure that the crops survived.
Sowing of rabi crops such as wheat and mustard begins in October.
“We are seeing that in the coming season, production is likely to be affected to a large extent. And the rabi season will also be challenging for the rainfed areas,” he said.
Chandra said some states could face the problem of excess soil moisture, while areas with deficient rainfall may see prolonged periods of stress.
Strategies need to be calibrated accordingly for the rabi season, he added.
Calling climate change a reality, he said even irri
Read more at the source
Disclaimer: The content of this post is sourced from external sites and is for informational purposes only. All rights and credits belong to the original authors and publishers.