The Modi government’s initiatives in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, improving water use efficiency, and integrating digital technology into agriculture have significantly strengthened India’s farming sector.
Climate change poses a significant challenge to global agriculture, affecting crop yields, water availability, and soil fertility. Recognizing this, the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has prioritized the development of climate-resilient crop varieties and advanced agricultural technologies to ensure food security and sustainable farming. Through the efforts of the National Agricultural Research System (NARS), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and various policy interventions, India has significantly advanced in climate-resilient agriculture.
Development of Climate-Resilient Crop Varieties
Between 2014 and 2024, NARS, including ICAR Institutes and State/Central Agricultural Universities, developed 2,900 new crop varieties, of which 2,661 are climate-resilient. These varieties are specifically bred to withstand droughts, floods, pests, and extreme temperatures, ensuring stable agricultural productivity despite climate uncertainties.
For Kerala alone, 63 field crop varieties have been developed, including 23 cereals, 2 oilseeds, 10 pulses, 15 forage crops, and 13 sugarcane varieties, out of which 58 are climate-resilient. These developments help safeguard farmers against climate-induced risks, ensuring consistent yields and improved incomes.
Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) – Enhancing Water Use Efficiency
Water conservation is a critical aspect of climate-resilient agriculture. The Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) Scheme, launched in 2015-16, focuses on enhancing water use efficiency through micro-irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation.
Implemented initially under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) from 2015-16 to 2021-22, and later under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) from 2022-23, the scheme helps farmers save water, reduce fertilizer use through fertigation, cut labor costs, and enhance farm income. The government provides financial assistance of 55% to small and marginal farmers and 45% to other farmers for installing micro-irrigation systems, making water conservation more accessible.
Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) – Advanced Agrometeorological Services
To aid farmers in making informed agricultural decisions, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) runs the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) scheme. This initiative provides weather-based operational Agrometeorological Advisory Services (AAS) in collaboration with ICAR, State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), and other institutions.
Currently, 130 Agromet Field Units (AMFUs) operate across India, disseminating biweekly bulletins, daily weather forecasts, and extreme weather alerts through multiple channels, including radio, TV, newspapers, mobile SMS, and digital platforms. In Kerala, five AMFUs – Ambalavayal, Pillicode, Thrissur, Vellayani, and Kumarakom – prepare district-level advisories in English and regional languages, reaching over 40 lakh farmers.
Digital Innovations for Weather Forecasting
The Government has also introduced several digital platforms to extend real-time weather updates to farmers:
- Meghdoot & Mausam Mobile Apps: Provide localized weather forecasts and agromet advisories.
- Panchayat-Level Weather Forecasts: Launched in October 2024, this initiative delivers weather forecasts at the Gram Panchayat level through e-Gramswaraj, the Meri Panchayat app, e-Manchitra, and Mausamgram.
- Social Media Integration: Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube are used to disseminate crucial weather information and farming advisories.
Drought Monitoring through Geoportal
To strengthen drought preparedness, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW), in collaboration with ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC), has developed a Geoportal for Drought Monitoring. This digital platform consolidates data on rainfall, soil moisture, crop conditions, and water storage levels, enabling timely interventions and effective drought management at the district and tehsil levels.
The Modi government’s initiatives in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, improving water use efficiency, and integrating digital technology into agriculture have significantly strengthened India’s farming sector. These efforts ensure higher productivity, better farmer incomes, and a robust response to climate change challenges. By leveraging advanced research, innovative policies, and digital tools, India is setting a global benchmark in sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability for its farmers.
