Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions
Anjum FaheemBegginer
Considering the diverse geographical and climatic conditions across India, what are some of the most significant challenges facing Indian farmers today, and how are they adapting their practices to address these challenges?
Indian farmers face significant challenges due to diverse geographical and climatic conditions, including unpredictable weather patterns, water scarcity, soil degradation, and pest infestations. Climate change leads to inconsistent rainfall and extreme events like droughts and floods, severely affecting crop yields. Water scarcity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, complicates irrigation and crop management. Overuse of chemical fertilizers and monoculture practices degrade soil health, reducing productivity. Pest infestations, exacerbated by climate variations, threaten crop health and yield. To address these challenges, Indian farmers are adopting various adaptive practices. They are increasingly using drought-resistant and high-yield crop varieties to cope with water shortages and improve productivity. Precision farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, optimize water usage. Organic farming and crop rotation are gaining popularity to enhance soil health and sustainability. Additionally, farmers are leveraging technology, including mobile apps and weather forecasting tools, to make informed decisions and manage risks better. Government initiatives and subsidies for sustainable farming practices and improved infrastructure also support farmers in adapting to these challenges. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices, Indian farmers are building resilience against the diverse climatic and geographical challenges they face.