Challenges and opportunities in rainfed agriculture

Abstract

Rainfed agriculture sustains billions of people worldwide, particularly in arid and semiarid regions. Variable rainfall is a key issue leading to frequent crop failures. Droughts and other extreme events are expected to intensify further due to global climate change affecting rainfed agriculture. Shallow depth, limited water-holding capacity, poor organic matter content further exacerbate the
moisture deficiency coupled with frequent pest outbreak making it difficult for crops to thrive. Early warning systems, drought-tolerant crop varieties, agroforestry, agri-horti systems, improved water management practices and precision agriculture technologies play a key role for protecting rainfed farming. Climate-resilient agriculture practices, technological advancements, policy support, and market diversification can help farmers build resilience and improve their livelihoods. Addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities requires a concerted effort from governments, farmers, researchers, and civil society organizations.