The Economic Survey 2024-25, presented ahead of the Union Budget, emphasizes the urgent need to develop climate-resilient crop varieties to safeguard India’s agricultural sector from rising climate challenges. With increasing instances of droughts, floods, heatwaves, and erratic rainfall, the survey stresses the importance of agricultural innovation, biotechnology, and sustainable farming practices to ensure food security and economic stability.
Climate Change & Its Impact on Indian Agriculture
1. Extreme Weather Events Threatening Crop Yields
📉 Heatwaves & Rising Temperatures: Higher temperatures reduce productivity of key crops like wheat, rice, and pulses.
🌊 Unpredictable Monsoons & Floods: Excessive rainfall leads to crop damage, while delayed monsoons affect sowing patterns.
🌾 Droughts & Water Scarcity: Limited water availability threatens irrigation-dependent farming.
🦗 Pest & Disease Outbreaks: Changing climate increases the spread of pests and diseases, affecting crop health.
📌 According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), 2023 witnessed one of the hottest summers on record, leading to significant losses in wheat and paddy production.
Need for Climate-Resilient Crops
✅ Drought-Resistant Crops: Varieties that require less water and thrive in arid conditions.
✅ Heat-Tolerant Crops: Crops that can withstand high temperatures without yield loss.
✅ Flood-Resistant Crops: Rice and other grains that survive excessive waterlogging.
✅ Pest-Resistant Crops: Genetically modified (GM) or bio-fortified crops that can resist new pest strains.
📌 The survey recommends accelerating research in biotechnology, hybrid seeds, and genome editing to enhance agricultural resilience.
Government Initiatives & Policy Recommendations
1. Increased Investment in Agricultural R&D
🔬 Strengthening ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) & State Agricultural Universities.
🌱 Expanding gene banks and seed research facilities for climate adaptation.
🧬 Promoting genetic modification, CRISPR technology, and organic farming innovations.
📌 India has developed 800+ climate-resilient crop varieties, but mass adoption is still needed.
2. Expanding Crop Diversification & Sustainable Farming
🌿 Encouraging millets (Shree Anna), pulses, and oilseeds as drought-tolerant alternatives.
🚜 Strengthening Natural Farming & Organic Agriculture practices.
💧 Promoting Micro-Irrigation (Drip & Sprinkler Systems) for efficient water use.
📌 The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) aims to increase irrigation coverage and efficiency.
3. Strengthening Climate Insurance & Financial Support
💰 Expanding PM Fasal Bima Yojana to cover climate-induced risks.
🏦 Increasing credit support for farmers investing in climate-resilient seeds and technologies.
📊 Developing climate-risk forecasting models to assist farmers in decision-making.
📌 AI-driven weather analytics and satellite-based monitoring can enhance climate adaptation strategies.
Future Roadmap for India’s Agriculture
🌎 Integrating climate-smart technologies into mainstream farming.
🧪 Strengthening public-private partnerships in agricultural research.
🌾 Promoting precision agriculture & AI-driven crop monitoring.
🚀 Fast-tracking approval of GM and bio-fortified crops for wider adoption.
📌 By 2030, India aims to become a global leader in climate-resilient agriculture through innovative policies and sustainable practices.
Conclusion
The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights the critical role of climate-resilient crops in ensuring food security and farmer income stability amid rising climate threats. With strong policy measures, technological advancements, and financial support, India can transform its agriculture sector into a sustainable and resilient powerhouse.
