Climate Concerns

Rainfall patterns pose risks to agriculture

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A recent study published in the Reserve Bank of India's March bulletin highlights a pressing concern — the increasing variability in rainfall and its impact on food-crop production. It reaffirms that agriculture in India still relies heavily on monsoon. While the expansion of modern irrigation facilities and the development of climate-resilient seed varieties have provided some relief, rainfall continues to be a decisive factor. Precipitation during the southwest monsoon remains critical for agricultural production during the kharif season. Erratic rain and drought-like conditions tend to disrupt crop-growing cycles and exacerbate pest and plant-disease problems. In contrast, a spell of good rain helps in raising output and farm productivity. A good monsoon is also conducive to rabi season. Ample soil moisture and augmented reservoir levels provide ideal sowing conditions for key crops such as wheat, mustard, and lentil.