Surinder Kukal and Ramesh Kanwar
CLIMATE change is one of the key challenges agriculture is facing, especially in the northwest plains comprising Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh. The major reasons for higher annual temperatures, coupled with highly irregular and intense rainstorms, are industrialisation, deforestation, increased use of fossil fuels and population growth. The decreased wheat productivity due to abnormally high February-March temperatures in 2022 and untimely rain in 2023 are the most recent examples of climate chaos in the region. The increasing water scarcity presents its own challenges, including competing demands for use in farming, industrial and domestic sectors. Groundwater is the primary source of irrigation and drinking water for more than 80% of Punjab's population. The impact of climate change on the quantity and quality of groundwater is huge. Irregular rainfall distribution in recent years, with frequent dry spells even in otherwise normal rainfall years, has put additional burden on groundwater in the state. The prolonged dry spells during the monsoon have shown an increasing trend during the past decade, thereby leading to increased extraction of groundwater to meet the irrigation demand.
We need incentive-based policies and technological innovations to mitigate the impact of climate change on water and food security of an ever-growing population. We must take action now to develop, strengthen and sustain resilience in water and food production and distribution systems to meet the future demand of water for irrigation.
Climate change is posing a serious threat to the agricultural production system in Punjab. Lower minimum temperatures, relative humidity, rainfall and number of rainy days during the reproductive growth period of the wheat crop during February and March have been found favourable for higher grain yield. The minimum and maximum temperatures in Punjab are increasing. The seasonal minimum temperature variability and year-to-year variations put Punjab in the high-risk zone for heat stress in crop production. Rising temperatures could reduce wheat yields by 10-28% because of heat stress. The situation is similarly worrisome in Haryana.
Here are some policy measures for climate-resilient agriculture:
Climate change can imperil food and water security. Researchers and policy-makers need to work together to develop innovative technologies, best management systems and adaptable policies to mitigate the effects of climate change and also sustain water resources.
Kukal is Member, Punjab Water Regulation & Development Authority; Kanwar is Distinguished Professor, Water Resources Engg, Iowa State University, US
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#Agriculture #climate change #Environment
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