Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach that helps guide actions to
transform agri-food systems towards green and climate-resilient
practices. CSA supports reaching internationally-agreed goals such as the
Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate
change. CSA supports the Food and Agriculture Organisation Strategic
Framework 2022-2031 based on the Four Betters: better production,
better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for all, leaving no
one behind.
(i) A CSA expert suggested increased production and consumption of millets in India. Justify their stance.
(ii) What is the necessity to think of CSA in India?
(iii) Suggest two methods through which India can shift towards CSA.
(i) Increased Production and Consumption of Millets:
– Millets are climate-resilient crops, requiring less water and adaptable to harsh climates, aligning with climate-smart agriculture (CSA) principles.
– Diverse nutritional value of millets addresses food security challenges, contributing to better nutrition and health outcomes.
– Cultivation of millets supports biodiversity, enhances soil fertility, and requires fewer chemical inputs, promoting a sustainable environment.
(ii) Necessity to Consider CSA in India:
– India faces climate vulnerabilities, making CSA crucial to adapt agricultural practices to mitigate risks posed by climate change.
– CSA aligns with national commitments to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and meet climate targets outlined in international agreements.
(iii) Methods to Shift Towards CSA in India:
– Promotion of Climate-Resilient Crops: Encouraging cultivation of millets, pulses, and drought-tolerant varieties.
– Adoption of Sustainable Farming Practices: Implementing conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and efficient water management to enhance sustainability in farming practices.