Mitigating climate change impacts on crop yields through precision irrigation and drought-tolerant varieties
Neeraj, Makhan Singh, Prashanthi Sandepogu, Nishant, Rajeshvari I Rathava, Ambika Prasad Mishra, Rakesh Dawar and Manoj Kumar
Climate change is posing significant threats to global food security, with rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events impacting crop yields. This paper explores two key strategies for mitigating these impacts: precision irrigation and the cultivation of drought-tolerant crop varieties. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies, we analyze the potential of these approaches to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure sustainable food production in a changing climate. Precision irrigation, utilizing technologies like soil moisture sensors and weather data, enables optimized water delivery to crops, minimizing waste and maximizing water use efficiency. This approach not only conserves water resources but also improves crop health, reduces nutrient leaching, and enhances soil health. Furthermore, the cultivation of drought-tolerant crop varieties, developed through breeding programs or genetic engineering, enhances crop resilience to water stress and other adverse conditions. These varieties possess traits such as deep root systems, efficient water use mechanisms, and the ability to withstand high temperatures, enabling continued productivity under challenging climatic conditions. This paper explores the synergistic benefits of integrating precision irrigation with the cultivation of drought-tolerant varieties. By precisely applying water to crops specifically bred for water-use efficiency, farmers can maximize yield potential while minimizing water consumption and environmental impact. This integrated approach holds significant promise for enhancing agricultural sustainability, ensuring food security, and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on global food production systems.
