Mandya: Anticipating below-normal rainfall during the upcoming cropping seasons, the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Mandya, has launched a comprehensive preparedness programme for the districts under its jurisdiction — Mandya, Mysuru, Hassan, Chamarajanagar and Kodagu.Recognising the challenges posed by erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells and moisture stress conditions, UAS vice-chancellor KC Narayanaswamy has initiated the formation of a high-level expert committee to devise strategies for mitigating the impact of adverse weather conditions on agriculture.The committee comprises scientists from various disciplines, including agronomy, agricultural meteorology, soil science, horticulture, plant protection, agricultural engineering and animal science. It will assess the likely impact of El Niño-related conditions on agricultural production systems and formulate district-specific contingency crop plans.Speaking to TOI, Narayanaswamy said, “The contingency plans will focus on developing scientific and location-specific recommendations to help farmers minimise crop losses and sustain agricultural productivity under rainfall-deficit conditions.”The plans will include recommendations on drought-tolerant crop varieties, alternative cropping systems, contingent crop substitutions, water conservation measures, soil moisture management practices, integrated nutrient management, climate-resilient technologies and crop-management practices.The university will also conduct district-level consultations with scientists, extension personnel, officials of the agriculture department, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and other stakeholders to ensure that the proposed measures are practical, timely and farmer-centric, he said.Special emphasis will be placed on rainfed farming systems, efficient utilisation of available water resources and strengthening advisory services through weather-based agro-advisories. The detailed district-wise contingency crop plans and recommendations are expected to be finalised and released this week for the benefit of farmers and extension agencies, Narayanaswamy added.
