What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping system? How crop diversification is helpful to stabilise the yield of the crops in the system?
(UPSC 2017, 15 Marks, )
धान और गेहूं की पैदावार में गिरावट के प्रमुख कारण क्या हैं? फसल विविधीकरण फसल प्रणाली में पैदावार को स्थिर करने में कैसे सहायक है?
Introduction
Explanation
Major Reasons for Declining Rice and Wheat Yield in the Cropping System
- Soil Degradation
o Continuous cultivation of rice and wheat leads to soil nutrient depletion.
o Loss of organic matter and soil structure deterioration.
- Water Scarcity
o Over-extraction of groundwater for irrigation purposes.
o Decreased rainfall and inefficient water management practices.
- Pest and Disease Incidence
o Increased resistance of pests and diseases to pesticides.
o Monoculture practices leading to higher vulnerability.
- Climate Change
o Extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and temperature fluctuations.
o Unpredictable growing conditions affecting crop growth cycles.
- Overuse of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides
o Decreased soil fertility and health due to excessive use of chemicals.
o Negative impacts on beneficial soil microorganisms.
- Inefficient Farming Practices
o Lack of adoption of modern and sustainable farming techniques.
o Insufficient knowledge and resources for small-scale farmers.
How Crop Diversification Helps to Stabilize the Yield of Crops
- Soil Health Improvement
o Diversification with legumes and other crops improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.
o Enhances organic matter content and soil structure.
- Risk Mitigation
o Reduces dependency on a single crop, thereby minimizing the impact of market price fluctuations and climate risks.
o Diversified crops can spread the risk and provide economic stability.
- Pest and Disease Management
o Breaks the pest and disease cycles by interrupting their life cycles.
o Reduces the need for chemical pesticides, promoting a healthier ecosystem.
- Efficient Resource Utilization
o Different crops utilize soil nutrients and water resources in varied ways, leading to balanced resource use.
o Enhances overall productivity and sustainability of the farming system.
- Enhanced Biodiversity
o Promotes ecological balance and resilience against environmental stress.
o Supports beneficial insects, pollinators, and soil microorganisms.
- Economic Benefits
o Provides multiple sources of income and food security for farmers.
o Opportunities for value-added products and market diversification.