What's Happening?
A recent report by NITI Aayog emphasizes the critical role of agriculture in India's journey towards achieving net-zero emissions. The report highlights that agriculture contributes approximately 14% of India's total greenhouse gas emissions, primarily
from methane and nitrous oxide. It suggests that reducing the climate footprint of agriculture is essential for the Viksit Bharat goal. The report outlines strategies such as shifting consumption from water-intensive crops like rice to climate-resilient millets, supported by initiatives like the Eat Right Movement and the National Millet Mission. It also stresses the importance of crop diversification and natural farming, particularly in rain-fed areas, to enhance productivity and resilience.
Why It's Important?
The report's findings are significant as they address the dual challenge of maintaining food security and reducing emissions in a country where agriculture is a major economic pillar. With 46% of the workforce engaged in agriculture, any changes in this sector could have widespread socio-economic impacts. The proposed shifts could lead to more sustainable farming practices, potentially increasing farm incomes and reducing environmental degradation. This transition is crucial for India to meet its climate goals while ensuring the livelihoods of millions of farmers are not adversely affected.
What's Next?
The report calls for phased and targeted implementation of the proposed strategies, emphasizing the need for government support in scaling up natural and chemical-free farming practices. It suggests that integrated assessment modeling could help in understanding the trade-offs and synergies between different land-use goals. The success of these initiatives will depend on effective policy implementation and the willingness of farmers to adopt new practices. The government may need to provide incentives and support to facilitate this transition.
