Gujarat CM calls for scientific farming as El Nino-linked low rainfall expected (Lead)
Gandhinagar, June 20
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday called upon farmers to adopt planned and scientific agricultural practices in view of expected below-normal rainfall conditions influenced by the El Niño phenomenon.
He asserted that Gujarat's irrigation infrastructure and water management systems are increasingly reducing dependence on monsoon variability.
A state-level "PM Kisan Utsav Diwas" was held in Gandhinagar after the release of the 23rd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme.
Farmers across the state also watched the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address from West Bengal, where the nationwide instalment was released.
Chief Minister Patel stated, "The state government has a special focus on water conservation, natural farming and modern agricultural development. Even in low rainfall conditions, planned farming is possible with a scientific approach. Natural farming improves soil quality, maintains production capacity and increases the chances of farmers getting better market prices."
He said the state has transitioned from rain-dependent agriculture to a more structured irrigation-based system through Narmada canal networks and water distribution planning.
According to him, this shift has allowed farmers in several regions to cultivate multiple crops across different seasons.
"Due to expected lower rainfall this year, farmers should select low-water-consuming crops and follow scientifically advisory-based farming practices instead of reacting to seasonal uncertainty," he said.
He emphasised that irrigation management is being strengthened through effective utilisation of Narmada waters and systematic storage in lakes and reservoirs.
"The permissible limit for filling lakes in the Narmada command area has been increased from three km to seven km to improve water availability for agriculture," he said.
He also noted that small and marginal farmers have been given expanded access to fencing schemes and support for storage infrastructure to reduce crop losses and improve market access.
"Under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign and 'Amrit Sarovar' initiative, more than the targeted number of 75 Amrit Sarovars have been constructed in each district. Efforts are being made to recharge groundwater levels through rainwater harvesting, and each MLA has been allocated Rs 50 lakh for water conservation works," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Appreciate the govt's efforts to reduce rain dependency. The 'Catch the Rain' campaign and Amrit Sarovar projects are good steps. However, natural farming needs more practical demonstrations for farmers. Many are still skeptical. Also, Rs 50 lakh per MLA for water conservation—hope it's used transparently.
Good to see PM-Kisan continues. But low-water crops like millets and pulses are great suggestions. Let's hope advisory reaches every farmer via Krishi Vigyan Kendras. 📢🌱
Planned farming is key, but what about farmers in Saurashtra and Kutch where Narmada water doesn't reach easily? They face severe water scarcity every year. More focus on local rainwater harvesting structures is needed. 🙏
Interesting approach—combining tech, policy, and awareness. But the real test will be during actual monsoon failure. Farmers need timely electricity for pumps and cheaper drip irrigation kits. Words alone won't help.
The shift from rain-fed to irrigation-based farming is bold. But we must ensure groundwater isn't over-exploited. 'Amrit Sarovar' and rainwater recharge are good—hope they're implemented sincerely across districts. 🌧️💧
R We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.