A proactive climate policy in the horticulture sector in Uttarakhand is an urgent need

Uttarakhand’s rich horticultural heritage is under siege. Once famous for its bountiful harvest of temperate fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, plums and apricots, the state is now facing a significant decline in both yields and planted area. Over the last seven years, the total area under fruit cultivation has halved and fruit yields have fallen by 44%. These alarming trends, fueled by the inexorable progress of climate change, require urgent and decisive policy interventions from the government.

Climate change: a clear and present threat

The effects of global warming are not abstract theories for farmers in Uttarakhand – they are brutal realities. Rising temperatures, warmer winters and reduced snowfall have severely disrupted the dormancy and flowering cycles necessary for fruit growth in moderate temperatures. Traditional crops, especially high-quality apples, require long cooling periods that are no longer provided by the region’s increasingly mild winters. As Dr. Pankaj Nautiyal of ICAR-CSSRI Krishi Vigyan Kendra notes, lack of adequate cooling hours has led to a drastic reduction in efficiency.

This is supported by data showing that the average temperature in Uttarakhand has increased by about 1.5 degrees Celsius since 1970. Higher elevations that once experienced predictable periods of cold are now warming at an even faster rate. Reduced snow and precipitation are exacerbating these problems, undermining the foundations of the state’s horticultural success.

The role of government policy

In the face of such challenges, the role of government policy becomes paramount. While efforts have been made to support farmers, these measures often fail to address the deep-seated problems arising from climate change. The government must take a more proactive stance, focusing on long-term resilience rather than short-term relief.

First, there is an urgent need to develop and disseminate crop varieties that are resistant to climate change. Research institutions, in cooperation with government agencies, should prioritize breeding and promoting plants that are resistant to higher temperatures and variable rainfall patterns. Intensive cultivation of tropical fruits such as mango, kiwi and pomegranate, which have shown promising results, should be expanded and supported through targeted programs.

Financial aid and support measures

Financial assistance is another critical area where government intervention can make a significant difference. Farmers switching to new crops or adopting innovative agricultural practices face significant financial risks. Grants, low-interest loans and subsidies for climate-resilient farming methods can ease some of these burdens. In addition, crop insurance programs need to be more inclusive and tailored to cover the specific risks posed by climate change.

In addition, the dissemination of agrometeorological advice is crucial. Farmers need timely and accurate weather forecasts to make informed decisions about sowing and harvesting. Improved communications infrastructure and extension services can bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical application in the field.

Investments in research and infrastructure

Long-term solutions also require significant investment in research and infrastructure. Research on weather trends and their impact on agriculture must be continuous and comprehensive. The development of advanced irrigation systems, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, can help mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall. Soil health management and conservation practices should be promoted to maintain agricultural productivity under changing climate conditions.

The way forward

The future of the horticulture sector in Uttarakhand is at a crossroads. Without proactive and decisive policy interventions, the region’s agricultural heritage and the livelihoods of countless farmers are at risk. The government must rise to the challenge by implementing policies that not only address immediate needs, but also build long-term resilience to the inevitable challenges of climate change.

By choosing climate-resilient practices, providing financial support, and investing in research and infrastructure, Uttarakhand can protect its horticultural heritage and ensure a sustainable future for its farming communities. The time for action is now, and the responsibility for charting a path forward in a changing climate rests with both policymakers and the farming community.