ICAR-CRIDA and Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan, Collaborate to Enhance Agricultural Preparedness for Kharif 2024

In a concerted effort to fortify agricultural resilience in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, the ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (ICAR-CRIDA) and the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, joined hands to conduct a Virtual Interface Meeting today. The gathering aimed to bolster preparedness strategies for Kharif 2024 in the state of Rajasthan, a crucial endeavor in light of escalating climate uncertainties impacting farming communities.

Dr. V.K. Singh, Director of ICAR-CRIDA, set the tone for the meeting by elucidating its objectives and outlining pivotal measures imperative for mitigating agricultural vulnerabilities arising from adverse weather conditions. Emphasizing the significance of proactive planning, Dr. Singh underscored the need for adaptive strategies to counter potential weather aberrations and safeguard agricultural productivity.

Shri. Arjun Lal, Joint Director of Agriculture (Agricultural Technology Centre), Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, provided insights into the comprehensive Kharif program plan, delineating key aspects such as crop selection, targeted cultivation areas, input availability, and ongoing crop monitoring initiatives across the state. His presentation shed light on the concerted efforts undertaken by the state government to optimize agricultural output amidst dynamic climatic dynamics.

The interface meeting witnessed the participation of esteemed dignitaries including Shri. Kanhaiya Lal Swami, Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Government of Rajasthan, and Dr. Jagadish Rane, Director of ICAR-Central Institute for Arid Horticulture, Bikaner, among others. Their collective expertise and engagement further enriched the discourse on bolstering agricultural resilience in Rajasthan.

Addressing the prevailing challenges, Additional Directors of Agriculture and Joint Directors of Agriculture provided a comprehensive overview of the current agricultural landscape in Rajasthan. Deliberations ensued on potential contingency measures, including the exploration of alternative crop varieties and cultivation practices tailored to withstand adverse climatic conditions, thereby ensuring sustainable agricultural livelihoods.

The collaborative efforts between ICAR-CRIDA and the Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan, underscore a proactive approach towards enhancing agricultural preparedness and resilience. By fostering knowledge exchange and innovative solutions, this partnership aims to empower farming communities to navigate the uncertainties of Kharif 2024, fostering sustainable agricultural development in the region.

(Source: ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad)