Hindu Editorial Analysis : 25-November-2023

The 21st century presents humanity with two critical challenges: climate change and food insecurity. The adverse effects of climate change, including heat waves, flash floods, and droughts, are impacting lives and agriculture. Southern continents face severe droughts, diminishing agricultural productivity and threatening farmers’ livelihoods.

Threats to Agriculture:

Traditional farming practices are becoming less productive due to climate change. In India, a potential 9% decline in crop yield between 2010 and 2039 raises concerns about food security. The demand for food is rising with population growth and dietary changes, necessitating a 60% increase in agricultural production by 2050.

Understanding Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA)

Definition and Objectives: Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is a transformative approach to support sustainable development and ensure food security amid climate change. CSA focuses on three pillars: increasing agricultural productivity, adapting to climate change, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Dimensions of CSA Practices: CSA practices include water-smart, weather-smart, energy-smart, and carbon-smart techniques, addressing land degradation and enhancing soil health. Examples such as agroforestry and precision agriculture showcase the versatility of CSA.

Implementation of CSA: CSA promotes crop diversification, water efficiency, and the integration of drought-resistant crops. Community-supported agriculture initiatives worldwide strive to create resilient and environmentally friendly agricultural systems.

CSA in India: India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change underscores climate-resilient agriculture. Government initiatives like the National Adaptation Fund and Climate Smart Village, alongside public and private sector efforts, aim to integrate CSA practices.

Significance and Benefits of CSA

Enhanced Output with Ecological Stability: CSA is crucial for increasing agricultural output while maintaining ecological stability, essential for long-term food security and sustainable resource usage.

Increased Resilience: By reducing exposure to climate-related risks, CSA enhances resilience against longer-term stressors, contributing to economic stability.

Economic Autonomy and Social Structure: Implementing CSA leads to economic autonomy for farmers, transforming farming communities and providing access to climate-resilient methods.

Uplifting Disadvantaged Farmers: CSA benefits small and marginal farmers, particularly in India, offering them a pathway to increased profits and resilience.

Reduced GHG Emissions: Given the agricultural sector’s substantial contribution to greenhouse gas emissions (17% in 2018), CSA is crucial for lowering emissions and preserving biodiversity. Additionally, it aids in enhancing farmland carbon storage.

Why In News

Climate-smart agriculture, with its focus on sustainable practices and resilience to changing climatic conditions, has the potential to assure food security, empower farmers, and protect our delicate ecosystems, ultimately paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for agriculture and the environment.

MCQs about Climate-Smart Agriculture

  1. What is the primary focus of CSA practices in addressing climate change impacts?
    A. Expanding traditional farming methods
    B. Introducing genetically modified crops
    C. Reducing exposure to climate-related dangers and shocks
    D. Increasing the use of chemical fertilizers
    Correct Answer: C. Reducing exposure to climate-related dangers and shocks
    Explanation: CSA practices aim to reduce exposure to climate-related dangers and shocks, enhancing the resilience of agricultural systems.
  2. How does CSA contribute to economic stability for farmers?
    A. By encouraging unsustainable farming practices
    B. By reducing the need for crop diversification
    C. By distributing information and providing access to climate-resilient methods
    D. By promoting large-scale industrial agriculture
    Correct Answer: C. By distributing information and providing access to climate-resilient methods
    Explanation: CSA contributes to economic stability by transforming farming communities through the distribution of information and providing access to climate-resilient methods, empowering farmers economically.
  3. Why is Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) considered essential for long-term food security?
    A. It increases exposure to climate-related risks.
    B. It supports unsustainable development practices.
    C. It enhances agricultural output while maintaining ecological stability.
    D. It accelerates climate change impacts on farming communities.
    Correct Answer: C. It enhances agricultural output while maintaining ecological stability.
    Explanation: CSA is crucial for simultaneously increasing agricultural output and maintaining ecological stability, which is essential for ensuring long-term food security.

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