Subject: Agriculture and Food Security

Despite India achieving record food grain production of 3322.98 LMT in 2023-24, the rice-wheat cropping system faces various challenges affecting long-term sustainability and yield stability. The issue demands attention as studies predict a 16% decline in wheat yields in South Asia by 2050 due to climate change impacts.

Major Reasons for Declining Rice and Wheat Yield

1. Environmental Factors:

• Climate Change Impact: Increasing temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns affect crop growth cycles and yield potential.
• Water Stress: Depletion of groundwater resources and drought-like conditions in southern states affecting irrigation availability.
• Soil Health Degradation: Continuous mono-cropping leading to nutrient depletion and soil structure deterioration.

2. Agricultural Practices:

• Intensive Farming: Excessive use of chemical fertilizers affecting soil microbiome and natural fertility.
• Pest Resistance: Development of resistance in pests and diseases due to continuous cultivation of same crops.
• Resource Depletion: Over-exploitation of natural resources leading to reduced productivity.

Benefits of Crop Diversification in Stabilizing Yield

1. Economic Benefits:

• Income Stabilization: Multiple income streams reduce dependency on single crop performance.
• Risk Mitigation: Government reports (2023-25) indicate significant increase in farm income through diversification.
• Market Opportunities: Access to diverse markets reducing price fluctuation risks.

2. Ecological Benefits:

• Soil Health Enhancement: Different crops with varying nutrient requirements maintain soil fertility.
• Pest Management: Breaking pest cycles through rotation of crops.
• Resource Efficiency: Better utilization of water and nutrients through different rooting patterns.

3. Implementation Strategy:

• Studies recommend allocating minimum 40% farmland to high-value crops.
• Integration of pulses and oilseeds in rotation with cereals.
• Adoption of region-specific crop combinations based on agro-climatic conditions.

The implementation of strategic crop diversification, supported by initiatives like National Food Security Mission and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, along with sustainable farming practices, can help achieve the twin objectives of yield stability and agricultural sustainability while ensuring food security for the growing population.