Coping with Climate Change by Using Climate Resilient Technology in Rainfed Areas

Abstract

There are critical challenges of climate change on agriculture, particularly in developing countries like India, where a significant portion of the population depends on agriculture for livelihoods and food security. With over 80% of agricultural land rainfed and more than 60% of available groundwater dedicated to agriculture, there is a pressing need for water-saving practices to counter overexploitation of the groundwater. Focusing on Maharashtra, the study explores the implementation of the World Bank-aided Project on Climate Resilient Agriculture (PoCRA). PoCRA aims to enhance climate resilience and farm production in drought-prone villages across 16 districts, primarily in Marathwada and Vidarbha regions. The multifaceted approach of PoCRA introduces transformational changes in agriculture through climate-smart technologies and practices at the farm and micro-watershed levels, focusing on small landholders for drought-proofing and management. Critical interventions include soil and water management, micro-irrigation practices like drip and sprinkler irrigation, cropping pattern diversification, soil health improvement, Broad Bed Furrow (BBF), Zero tillage, climate resilient variety seed production and capacity building for farmers. The study focuses on the importance of the various climate-resilient agricultural technology components in mitigating the impact of reduced rainfall days and increasing drought situations in project areas. PoCRA's unique strategy aims to improve soil health, enhance water security and increase farm productivity and crop diversification through the micro-irrigation component. The study highlights the widespread adoption of climate-resilient technologies as cost-effective and location-specific, especially in drought-prone regions like Marathwada and Vidarbha. The study emphasizes the necessity of such practices to sustain the sector in the face of climate change.