The year 2023 witnessed a late start to the southwest monsoon season of India. The initial two weeks marked a significant rainfall deficiency, with it being 52.6% below the Long-Period Average (LPA). However, by July 30, there was an overall surplus rainfall of 6%. This change had a positive effect on the Kharif crop plantings but raised concerns about the impending El Nino phenomenon’s potential impact on Rabi crops.
The Long-Period Average (LPA) of Rainfall Explained
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) defines the LPA of rainfall as an average of recorded rainfall over a specific region for a relatively extended period, such as 30 or 50 years. Categorized on an all-India scale, rainfall can be classified into five types based on this LPA measure – Normal or near normal, Below normal, Above normal, Deficient, and Excess.
Kharif and Rabi Crops: A Brief Overview
Kharif crops are sown during the monsoon season from June to October and harvested in late summer or early autumn. Kharif crops heavily rely on the southwest monsoon for irrigation and growth, contributing to about 55% of India’s total food grain production.
On the other hand, the Rabi crops, also known as winter crops, are planted around the Retreating Monsoon and Northeast monsoon season, beginning in October. Harvesting these crops typically occurs in April and May, during the summer season.
The Impact of Monsoon on Indian Agriculture
Monsoons have a significant effect on Indian agriculture. Adequate rainfall during the monsoon season increases soil moisture, promoting crop growth and resulting in higher agricultural output. This economic upturn often stimulates demand for goods and services within the rural economy, thereby contributing positively to national growth.
At the same time, the monsoon’s timing, intensity, and distribution are unpredictable, leading to uncertainties in agricultural planning and crop management. Droughts and floods, a result of monsoon failure or excess rainfall respectively, can be disastrous for agriculture. These conditions also hinder farmers’ ability to conduct agricultural operations effectively.
The El Nino Phenomenon and Its Implications on Agriculture
El Nino is an irregular climate phenomenon occurring in the tropical Pacific Ocean, characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures. It significantly impacts weather patterns globally, including India, and has wide-ranging implications on agriculture.
Elevated temperatures associated with El Nino can adversely impact crops, leading to heat stress and reduced yields, especially in sensitive crops like fruits and vegetables. Warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns can lead to increased pest populations, posing additional challenges to farmers. It also affects livestock, reducing the availability of fodder and water, ultimately leading to lower milk and meat production.
Monsoons and El Nino phenomena play a vital role in Indian agriculture’s functioning, impacting almost every aspect from sowing to harvesting. As their patterns remain unpredictable, effective planning and mitigation strategies are essential to minimize their ill effects on the farming sector and ensure food security.