The Maharashtra government has recently issued a directive advising farmers to postpone the sowing of kharif crops until the state receives sufficient rainfall. Known for being the leading producer of tur or arhar, as well as sugar, and the second-largest producer of cotton and soybeans, Maharashtra's agricultural sector heavily relies on favorable monsoon conditions.
However, this year, the state has experienced a meager 11% of the average June rainfall, raising concerns among agricultural authorities. With just a little over 1% of kharif sowing completed so far, the state's agriculture department organized a meeting with officials from the India Meteorology Department to discuss contingency plans in response to the delayed monsoon.
Agriculture Commissioner Sunil Chavhan emphasized that the timing of the monsoon is being affected by climate change. He mentioned that the normal arrival time of the monsoon is being delayed due to climate change. According to the IMD, the new normal for the monsoon in the state will be around June 24-25. These statements were included in a press release issued on Wednesday, highlighting the importance of farmers adapting to the changing weather patterns.
To mitigate the risks associated with resowing, the government has advised farmers to commence sowing activities only after receiving 80-100 millimeters of rainfall. By doing so, they aim to prevent instances of low crop yields and financial losses for the farmers. Additionally, the government recommends farmers to utilize approximately 20% more seeds than usual and opt for short-duration crop varieties to minimize the potential impact of reduced rainfall.
In an effort to further reduce the vulnerability of crops, farmers have been encouraged to practice intercropping, which involves cultivating multiple crops in close proximity. This approach not only diversifies the risk of crop failure but also contributes to increased overall agricultural productivity.
The Maharashtra government's proactive measures reflect their commitment to supporting farmers in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change and irregular weather patterns. By providing timely guidance and recommendations, they aim to safeguard the interests of farmers and ensure the stability of the state's agricultural sector.
