El Nino may dry up more than just rainfall; which crops should farmers choose this year?

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Due to the impact of El Nino, there is a possibility of below-average rainfall or prolonged dry spells during this year’s monsoon season, which could adversely affect crop growth. Against this backdrop, the Regional Agriculture Department and agricultural experts have advised farmers not to depend on a single crop, but instead to opt for mixed cropping, intercropping, and crops that require less water.

Forecast of dry spells

Experts have predicted that rainfall this year may be only 92 percent of the average due to El Nino conditions. In addition, there is a possibility that after initial rains in June, the monsoon could witness sudden breaks. Considering this scenario, agricultural experts have recommended cultivating crops that can survive with limited water availability.

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Which crops need less water?

The Agriculture Department is urging farmers to select drought-resistant and low-water crops such as soybean, pearl millet (bajra), sorghum (jowar), black gram (urad), green gram (moong), sesame, and finger millet (ragi) for sowing this season.

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Mixed cropping advantage

Adopting mixed cropping ensures that even if one crop fails due to poor rainfall, farmers can still earn income from the remaining crops.

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Seed treatment

Erratic weather increases disease risk. Experts have advised proper seed treatment before sowing to boost disease resistance and protect against pest attacks.

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Water conservation

Farmers are encouraged to shift to drip and sprinkler irrigation and strictly avoid flood irrigation practices.

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“Due to El Nino, lower rainfall is expected this year. In this context, farmers should adopt mixed cropping practices during the Kharif season. Water should be used judiciously, and sowing should only be undertaken after the soil has received six to ten inches of moisture.”

- Deepak Gawli, acting district superintendent agriculture officer.

(with photo)