Cropping Patterns and Irrigation

India's Rising Lentil Production

India is projected to become the world's largest producer of lentils (masoor) during the 2023-24 crop year. This significant increase is primarily attributed to a higher acreage under cultivation.

Understanding Lentils (Masoor)

Lentil is a bushy annual herbaceous plant belonging to the legume family. Its flowers are typically short and self-pollinated, contributing to efficient cultivation.

Lentils are highly nutritious, serving as excellent sources of energy, carbohydrates, and protein. They also provide essential fats, fiber, phosphorus, iron, zinc, carotene, various vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a vital part of a balanced diet.

Climatic Conditions and Growing Regions for Lentils

Lentils are classified as a rabi crop, primarily grown as a rain-fed crop in India. They require specific climatic conditions for optimal growth.

• Vegetative Growth: Needs cold temperatures during its initial growth phase.
• Maturity: Requires warm temperatures as the crop approaches maturity.

Major lentil-growing regions in India include Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. The Bundelkhand region, spanning parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, is particularly significant, contributing nearly 25% to India's total lentil production, earning it the moniker 'lentil bowl'.

Global Lentil Production Landscape

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the top lentil growers globally in 2022 were:

• Canada
• India
• Australia
• Turkey
• Russia

Status of Pulse Production in India

India holds a dominant position in the global pulse market. It is the largest producer, consumer, and importer of pulses worldwide.

Pulses collectively account for approximately 20% of the total area under food grains in India. They contribute around 7-10% to the country's total foodgrain production, highlighting their importance in agricultural output and food security.

Among various pulses, Gram is the most dominant, contributing about 40% to the total pulse production. It is followed by Tur/Arhar (15-20%) and then Urad/Black Matpe and Moong, each contributing around 8-10%.

Investment Forum for Climate Resilient Agrifood Systems: An Overview

An important initiative, the 'Investment Forum for Advancing Climate Resilient Agrifood Systems in India', was jointly launched in New Delhi. This forum represents a collaborative effort to address pressing agricultural challenges.

The primary aim of this forum is to develop an investment and partnership strategy. This strategy focuses on fostering climate-resilient agrifood systems among various stakeholders across India, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Key Discussion Areas of the Forum

The forum facilitated extensive discussions and deliberations across six crucial areas, designed to cover a holistic approach to climate resilience in agriculture:

• Climate resilient agriculture: Sharing experiences and outlining future pathways.
• Digital infrastructure and solutions: Leveraging technology for agricultural resilience.
• Financing climate resilient agrifood systems: Exploring both domestic and global funding mechanisms.
• Climate resilient value chains: Ensuring resilience throughout the agricultural supply chain.
• Production practices and inputs: Identifying and promoting climate-resilient farming methods.
• Gender mainstreaming and social inclusion: Ensuring equitable participation and benefits in climate adaptation efforts.

Importance of Investing in Climate-Resilient Agrifood Systems

Climate change poses profound implications for India, significantly impacting its economically vulnerable rural population. A large segment of this population relies heavily on climate-sensitive agricultural livelihoods.

Agriculture itself contributes approximately 13% of India's total greenhouse gas emissions. Simultaneously, it is highly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, creating a complex challenge.

Indian agriculture is particularly susceptible to a range of climate-related hazards. These include extreme temperatures, droughts, floods, cyclones, and increasing soil salinity, all of which threaten food security and farmer livelihoods.