How Indian Farmers Are Growing Crops Despite Droughts and Floods

Climate change threatens Indian farmers. Unpredictable rains, sudden droughts, and extreme weather events make farming harder each year. The government recognizes this crisis and has launched several programs to help farmers adapt and thrive despite these challenges.

Identifying the Most Vulnerable Areas

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research runs a major project called National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). This project studies how climate change affects farming across the country. Researchers have assessed 651 agricultural districts to understand their risks. The findings are sobering: 310 districts face serious climate threats. Among these, 109 districts are “very high” risk and 201 are “highly” vulnerable.

Teaching Farmers New Techniques

The government doesn’t just identify problems—it provides solutions. Through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), which serve as agricultural training centers, farmers learn climate-smart farming methods. These centers have established 448 Climate Resilient Villages where they demonstrate practical techniques.

Farmers learn methods like the system of rice intensification, which uses less water while producing better yields. They practice aerobic rice cultivation, direct seeding, and zero-till wheat sowing. These techniques help crops survive in difficult conditions while reducing costs and labor.

The training programs also teach farmers to create village-level seed banks and community nurseries. This ensures they have access to quality seeds even during tough times.

Developing Tougher Crop Varieties

Scientists have worked tirelessly to develop crops that can withstand harsh conditions. Over the past ten years, ICAR has released 2,900 new crop varieties. Of these, 2,661 varieties can tolerate droughts, floods, pests, or diseases. Farmers now grow rice, wheat, soybean, mustard, chickpea, sorghum, gram, and foxtail millet varieties that survive extreme weather.

Improving Soil Health

Healthy soil produces healthy crops. The government has strengthened the Soil Health Card scheme significantly. Since 2014-15, authorities have distributed over 25 crore soil health cards to farmers. These cards tell farmers exactly what nutrients their soil needs.

The government has built 8,302 soil testing laboratories across the country, including mobile labs that reach remote areas. They’ve even established 1,020 mini soil labs in schools to teach young people about soil science. The program has received ₹1,970 crore in funding since it started.

Testing labs check soil for pH levels, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and essential micronutrients like zinc, copper, iron, manganese, and boron. Farmers receive personalized advice on what fertilizers and bio-fertilizers to use. The government has organized 93,781 training sessions, 6.80 lakh demonstrations, and 7,425 farmer gatherings to spread this knowledge.

Using Technology to Help Farmers

Modern technology gives farmers powerful new tools. The ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ chatbot uses artificial intelligence and works in 11 regional languages. It answers farmers’ questions about government programs and has responded to over 95 lakh queries. The system handles more than 20,000 questions every day.

The National Pest Surveillance System uses AI and machine learning to detect pest attacks early. Over 10,000 extension workers use this system, which covers 61 crops and more than 400 pests. Early detection helps farmers protect their crops before serious damage occurs.

Satellite images and field photographs help experts match crops to weather conditions and monitor planting patterns across vast areas.

Providing Weather Forecasts

Under the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa scheme, farmers receive weather forecasts for the next five days. The Indian Meteorological Department creates these forecasts for districts and blocks. Then, 130 Agromet Field Units prepare detailed advice in English and regional languages.

Farmers access this information through multiple platforms: eGramSwaraj, the Gram Manchitra app, the Meri Panchayat mobile app, and the Mausam web portal. This helps them decide when to plant, irrigate, or harvest.

Building a Stronger Future

These programs work together to protect farmers and their incomes. Climate-resilient crops, better soil management, modern technology, and accurate weather information give farmers the knowledge and tools they need. While climate change presents serious challenges, India’s comprehensive approach helps farmers adapt, reduce risks, and maintain stable incomes despite unpredictable weather.