Climate Change and Indian Agriculture: Impacts & Government Initiatives

🌾 Climate Change Impact on Crop Yields (ICAR Projections)

Crop	2050 Yield Decline	2080 Yield Decline
Rainfed Rice	20%	10-47%
Irrigated Rice	3.5%	5%
Wheat	19.3%	40%
Kharif Maize	10-19%	>20%

---

🌱 Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it’s happening now, and its impact on Indian agriculture is undeniable. With erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and unpredictable weather patterns, farmers across India, including Uttar Pradesh, are facing unprecedented challenges.

But the good news? The Government of India is actively working to mitigate these risks and support farmers through innovative policies, research, and resilience-building programs.

How Climate Change is Affecting Indian Agriculture

According to studies by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), climate change could drastically reduce crop yields if no adaptation measures are taken:

• Rainfed rice yields may decline by 20% by 2050 and 10-47% by 2080.
• Irrigated rice could see a 3.5% drop by 2050 and 5% by 2080.
• Wheat production may decrease by 19.3% by 2050 and a staggering 40% by 2080.
• Kharif maize yields could fall by 10-19% by 2050 and over 20% by 2080.

These projections highlight an urgent need for climate-resilient farming techniques and policy interventions to safeguard India’s food security.

---

Government Initiatives to Combat Climate Change in Agriculture

The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and its missions are at the forefront of India’s fight against climate-induced agricultural risks. Here’s how the government is helping farmers adapt:

1. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)

• Promotes climate-smart farming to enhance resilience.
• Rainfed Area Development Programme focuses on Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) to boost productivity while minimizing climate risks.
• Soil Health Management Scheme encourages organic manures, bio-fertilizers, and balanced nutrient use to improve soil fertility.

2. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) Scheme

• Aims to improve water efficiency through micro-irrigation (drip & sprinkler systems).
• Helps farmers combat water scarcity caused by irregular rainfall.

3. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)

• Provides insurance coverage against crop failure due to extreme weather.
• Ensures financial security for farmers facing losses from droughts, floods, or unseasonal rains.

4. Weather-Based Advisory Services

• India Meteorological Department (IMD) offers bi-weekly agro-met advisories under Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa.
• Helps farmers make informed decisions on sowing, irrigation, and harvesting.

5. National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA)

• Demonstrates climate-resilient technologies in 448 vulnerable villages (including 50 in Uttar Pradesh).
• Focuses on heat/drought-tolerant crops, efficient water use, and sustainable practices.

6. International Collaborations for Research & Innovation

ICAR is working with global institutes like:

• International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
• International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)
• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
• Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)

These partnerships help bring cutting-edge agricultural technologies to Indian farmers.

---

The Way Forward: Building a Climate-Resilient Future

While climate change poses serious threats, India’s proactive policies and farmer-centric schemes are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.

What Can Farmers Do?

✅ Adopt micro-irrigation & water-saving techniques.
✅ Use climate-resistant seed varieties.
✅ Practice integrated farming & organic manuring.
✅ Stay updated with IMD’s weather advisories.
✅ Enroll in PMFBY for crop insurance protection.

What Can Policymakers Do?

🔹 Expand NICRA demonstrations to more villages.
🔹 Strengthen research on drought/flood-resistant crops.
🔹 Promote agroforestry & soil conservation.
🔹 Enhance access to affordable farm tech & credit.

---

A Collective Fight for Food Security

Climate change is a shared challenge, but with government support, scientific research, and farmer participation, India can build a more resilient agricultural future.