In the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture has reported a notable decrease in rainfall, marking the driest October, November, and December in the last eight years. This drought condition has led to severe water stress in the region, particularly affecting the Solan district, a key area for mushroom and tomato cultivation. The last recorded rainfall was in September, falling below the normal range.
According to data from the Agrometeorological Observatory of the university spanning from 1971 to 2020, the post-monsoon months typically record minimal rainfall, exacerbating the current dry conditions. This has resulted in parched fields and stressed crops, with vegetable crops like cabbage, cauliflower, peas, onions, garlic, and root crops facing reduced yields due to inadequate soil moisture. The university has highlighted the potential for early flowering, smaller pod sizes, and decreased pea yields as a result. Additionally, fruit saplings may experience stunted root growth and increased susceptibility to diseases.
To combat these challenges, the university recommends a shift towards integrated farming systems, moving away from mono-cropping to embrace multi-enterprise farming, including fruit cultivation and livestock. This approach aims to build resilience against water scarcity. Additionally, the adoption of fruit-based agroforestry models and drought-tolerant crop varieties is advised. For wheat, the university suggests planting drought-resistant, late-sown varieties such as HPW-155 and HPW-368 and providing life-saving irrigation at critical growth stages.
For water conservation, the university emphasizes the importance of selecting vegetable crops with lower water demands and implementing agronomic practices like mulching with dry grass residue to preserve soil moisture. In large fields, the application of anti-transpirants can help reduce water loss through transpiration. Enhancing farm irrigation facilities and installing rainwater harvesting structures are also recommended to manage moisture stress effectively.
The university encourages farmers to explore natural farming methods and visit demonstration sites to observe best practices in action. The cultivation of exotic fruits and vegetables is also gaining traction in Himachal Pradesh, driven by high demand and profitability, highlighting the state's adaptability in the face of climate vulnerabilities.
Source: daijiworld