Maharashtra Launches 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' Amid Severe Drought
The state initiates a campaign to promote crop diversification focusing on oilseeds and jowar to combat drought effects.
Maharashtra's agriculture department launches 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' from October 22 to November 30.
305 out of 358 talukas are affected by drought, with significant crop losses expected.
The campaign emphasizes soil health, water conservation, and promoting less water-intensive crops.
In response to the ongoing drought crisis, Maharashtra's agriculture department has unveiled the 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan', a month-long initiative running from October 22 to November 30. This program aims to encourage farmers to diversify their crops, particularly focusing on oilseeds and jowar, as the state grapples with severe water shortages affecting agricultural productivity.
The drought has severely impacted 305 of the state's 358 talukas, leading to predictions that many farmers may lose over 50% of their harvests. The situation is particularly dire in regions like Marathwada and Vidarbha, where erratic rainfall and declining groundwater levels have exacerbated crop failures. State agriculture commissioner Suraj Mandhare emphasized the importance of this campaign, stating that it will not only promote crop diversification but also improve soil health and encourage sustainable farming practices.
Agricultural experts have voiced the necessity for a shift towards less water-intensive crops such as jowar, bajra, and pulses, especially in drought-prone areas. A recent study by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) highlighted the urgent need for location-specific diversification strategies due to the mismatch between water demand and availability. The ICAR report advocates for the adoption of efficient irrigation practices alongside crop diversification to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity.
The 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' aims to enhance the efficient use of rice-fallow land, promote crop-residue management, and implement integrated pest management strategies. However, experts warn that simply encouraging farmers to switch crops without addressing issues like input costs and market access may hinder the campaign's success. Activists stress the importance of providing farmers with reliable procurement options and financial incentives to facilitate this transition.
Looking ahead, the campaign's success will depend on the government's ability to support farmers with necessary resources, including access to suitable seeds and technical guidance. Experts also call for improved water conservation measures, such as farm ponds and rainwater harvesting systems, to complement the proposed changes in cropping patterns. Ensuring that irrigation investments align with local hydrological conditions will be crucial to preventing further depletion of groundwater resources.
