NRAA organizes National Workshop on 'Climate Resilient Rainfed Agriculture’

Shri Faiz Ahmad Kidwai emphasized the need for policy reforms to support landless, small, and marginal farmers in rainfed areas, which are particularly vulnerable to extreme climatic events.

The National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA), under the Department of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare (DA&FW), Government of India, organized a National Workshop on 'Climate Resilient Rainfed Agriculture (CRRA)' in New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by Shri Faiz Ahmad Kidwai, Additional Secretary, DA&FW and CEO (NRAA), in the presence of Dr. S K Choudhary, DDG (NRM), ICAR, Shri Franklin L. Khobung, Joint Secretary (Rainfed Farming System), DA&FW, and Shri B Rath, Technical Expert (Water Management), NRAA.

Shri Faiz Ahmad Kidwai emphasized the need for policy reforms to support landless, small, and marginal farmers in rainfed areas, which are particularly vulnerable to extreme climatic events. He advocated for innovative and technology-driven agricultural practices to enhance climate resilience in these regions. He highlighted the potential of the Rainfed Area Development (RAD) scheme, implemented under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), to facilitate the transition towards climate-resilient rainfed agriculture. Additionally, he called for the effective convergence of the RAD scheme with various developmental programs to optimize resource utilization.

Climate Change and Agriculture

Dr. S K Choudhary addressed the impact of climate change on agriculture and allied sectors, stressing the need for inclusive growth in rainfed areas through an integrated approach. He shared insights from the ICAR-NICRA scheme, which addresses climate change through research, education, and extension. Dr. Choudhary also emphasized the need for block-level Risk Assessment Atlas and hands-on training for field functionaries on CRRA.

Technical Sessions

The workshop's technical sessions delved into the complexities of the Integrated Farming System (IFS) and livestock and natural resources management in rainfed areas. Key topics included landscape-based Integrated Farming Systems, watershed development, digital forecasting techniques, revival of pastoral routes, and generating economic evidence for scaling sustainable agriculture in India.

RAD Scheme and Future Approaches

In-depth discussions were held on the updated operational guidelines for the RAD scheme and its implementation challenges. The workshop concluded with forward-looking approaches to enhance climate resilience and sustainability in rainfed areas. Participants expressed optimism about the potential of the proposed strategies to revolutionize the agricultural sector and improve livelihood security for farmers across the nation.

The workshop provided a crucial platform for State and Central Government representatives, agricultural experts, researchers, and policymakers to discuss and develop innovative strategies and technologies aimed at enhancing crop production in rainfed areas through a climate-resilient approach.