News Capsule: Persistent Heatwaves Raise Crop Risks, May Impact Farm Growth
25-May-2026 12:42 PM
News Capsule: Persistent Heatwaves Raise Crop Risks, May Impact Farm Growth
★ Rising temperatures and recurring heatwaves across several parts of India are creating serious concerns for the agriculture sector. Unusual heat conditions could disrupt kharif sowing and reduce yields of key crops such as wheat, rice, and pulses.
★ Extreme heat during March caused wheat grains to shrink and forced crops to mature early, affecting both production and quality. In Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, higher temperatures have also increased pest and disease attacks, leading to higher spending on pesticides and fungicides.
★ Heatwaves could reduce wheat yields by 15-25% on average. Cereals such as wheat and rice are considered the most vulnerable to rising temperatures.
★ Temperature spikes, and not just weak rainfall, are now emerging as a major threat to food production and inflation. During El Nino years, extreme heat events are expected to become even more severe.
★ Around 310 districts in India have been identified as climate-vulnerable, including 201 highly vulnerable districts. To reduce climate risks, the government and agricultural scientists are promoting climate-resilient seeds, direct seeding, zero-tillage farming, and improved irrigation practices.