ICAR Warns Rising Night Temperatures Could Reduce Rice Yields

Climate change is affecting agriculture in many ways, but scientists say one of the less visible threats is the steady rise in night-time temperatures. Researchers at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have warned that warmer nights can reduce rice yields by increasing plant respiration and limiting grain development. The findings highlight the need for climate-resilient farming practices as India prepares for changing weather patterns.

Rice is one of India’s most important food crops, and even small declines in productivity can affect farmer incomes and national food security. Scientists believe that understanding the impact of rising night temperatures is becoming as important as managing droughts and heatwaves.

Plants store energy during the day through photosynthesis and use part of that energy for respiration at night. When night temperatures remain unusually high, plants consume more of the energy they have stored, leaving less available for grain formation.

Researchers say this can reduce grain weight, lower yields and affect crop quality. Unlike daytime heat, which is more visible, higher night temperatures often go unnoticed even though they can significantly influence crop performance.

Several rice-growing regions have already reported gradual increases in minimum temperatures over recent decades, making this an emerging concern for agriculture.

Climate Change Is Changing Crop Conditions

Climate scientists have observed that minimum temperatures are rising faster than maximum temperatures in many parts of the world. This trend is expected to continue as greenhouse gas concentrations increase.

For rice farmers, warmer nights may lead to faster crop development, shorter grain-filling periods and greater vulnerability to pests and diseases. Combined with irregular rainfall and extreme weather events, these changes can make crop management more challenging.

Agricultural researchers are studying how different rice varieties respond to changing temperatures to identify those that perform better under future climate conditions.

To reduce the impact of rising temperatures, researchers recommend adopting climate-smart agricultural practices.

These include using heat-tolerant rice varieties, following recommended sowing windows, improving water management and maintaining healthy soil through balanced nutrient application. Efficient irrigation and better crop monitoring can also help reduce stress during sensitive growth stages.

Scientists are also developing improved rice varieties that can maintain productivity under changing climatic conditions through advanced breeding programmes.

Preparing Agriculture for Future Climate Risks

Climate change will continue to influence crop production, making adaptation an essential part of future farming. Researchers believe farmers, scientists and policymakers must work together to strengthen agricultural resilience through research, improved technologies and timely advisory services.

The warning on rising night temperatures highlights that climate risks extend beyond heatwaves and droughts. By adopting climate-resilient practices and investing in improved crop varieties, India can better protect rice production while supporting the livelihoods of millions of farming families who depend on the crop.