CSIR urges climate-smart farming to reduce flood losses

The scientists called on the Government to invest in drainage infrastructure in major farming areas, improve farmers’ access to real-time weather information and strengthen agricultural extension services to support climate-smart farming practices.

He encouraged farmers to use weather forecasts available on smartphones when making farming decisions and recommended rice, taro and sugarcane for communities that experience frequent flooding because of their tolerance to high moisture conditions.

The scientists said although extreme floods could not always be prevented, improved land preparation, drainage, crop selection and timely weather information could significantly reduce their impact on agricultural production.