Climate-resilient farming system for coastalsaline and waterlogged areas

Abstract

Prolonged waterlogging (June to December) and deep clayey soils creates difficulties for crop production in coastal areas. In kharif season, lowland-rice is grown and the land remains fallow for the remaining period. In rabi season, clayey soils are too hard and difficult to manage for agriculture with additional problems of salinity build-up and fresh water scarcity. Adverse effects of climate change are further compounding the problems. These problems could be overcome by adopting ‘Alternate raised and furrow bed integrated with aquaculture and agroforestry system’. Problematic deep clayey soils and saline soils should be prioritised for such system. The article discusses about the possible ways to mitigate waterlogged problem and alternative ways to utilise clayey soils in coastal regions.