Need for Climate smart agriculture in India

This Post is based on the article "Need for Climate Smart Agriculture in India" Which is Published in the The Hindu on 25th November 2023. 

Introduction:

• The 21st century confronts humanity with two paramount challenges: climate change and food insecurity.

• Ongoing climate-related impacts, such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones, are adversely affecting lives and livelihoods globally.

Challenges for Agriculture:

• Severe droughts in the southern continents, including India, are negatively impacting agricultural production and farmers' livelihoods.

• Population growth and dietary changes are escalating the demand for food, placing additional strain on traditional farming practices.

• Climate change is rendering traditional farming less productive, necessitating farmers to reevaluate their methods.

Adapting to Climate Change:

• Farmers worldwide are adopting adaptation measures to mitigate the negative effects of climate change.

• Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) emerges as a holistic framework, addressing the dual challenges of adaptation and mitigation.

Pillars of Climate-Smart Agriculture:

• Defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2019, CSA comprises three pillars: 

1. sustainably increase agricultural productivity and incomes; 
2. Adapt and build resilience to climate change 
3. reducing/removing greenhouse gas emissions.

• Dimensions of climate-smart practices include water-smart, weather-smart, energy-smart, and carbon-smart practices.

Future Impacts on Agricultural Productivity:

• In India, climate change could lead to a substantial decline (up to 9%) in crop yields by 2039.

• A radical reform of the agriculture industry is essential to combat climate change and sustainably increase agricultural output.

National Initiatives:

• The National Action Plan on Climate Change emphasises the role of climate-resilient agriculture in India's adaptation measures.

• Programs like the Soil Health Card Scheme utilise precision nutrient management for optimising agricultural methods.

Community-Supported Efforts:

• CSA's value in minimising and adapting to the effects of climate change on agriculture is globally acknowledged.

• Community-supported agriculture efforts worldwide aim to create resilient and environmentally friendly agricultural systems.

Economic Autonomy and Social Impact:

• CSA not only increases resilience to climate-related risks but also brings about economic autonomy for farmers.

• Adoption of climate-smart techniques can benefit farmers, especially those already disadvantaged.

Environmental Conservation and Biodiversity:

• CSA's ecosystem-based approach helps cropland and wild regions coexist, contributing to biodiversity conservation.

• Collaborative efforts under CSA safeguard native plant species, stabilize pollinator populations, and mitigate habitat degradation.

Reducing GHG Emissions:

• The agricultural sector contributes 17% of greenhouse gas emissions, making CSA crucial for lowering emissions and protecting biodiversity.

• CSA measures like agroforestry and carbon sequestration align with global efforts to combat climate change.

Flexible Concept and Localised Responses:

• CSA is a flexible concept with a wide range of potential applications, requiring localised responses to effectively address global warming.

• Investment in capacity-building programs and practical CSA tools and knowledge is crucial.

Indian Context and Government Initiatives:

• India, with a majority of small and marginal farmers, stands at a unique juncture where CSA adoption is essential.

• Government initiatives like the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change and others focus on promoting CSA.

Conclusion:

• CSA has the potential to ensure food security, empower farmers, and protect ecosystems by merging innovation, resilience, and sustainability.

• In the face of a changing climate, CSA stands as an inspiration and transformative force for a sustainable future.

Important Terms:

Climate Smart Agriculture:

Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is a holistic approach that transforms food and agriculture systems to enhance sustainable development, ensuring food security, adapting to climate change, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions where possible.

Practice Question:

Q. "In the context of India's agricultural challenges, discuss the significance of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and its role in mitigating climate change, ensuring food security, and empowering farmers."

Answer in comment Section ....