Joint weather alert urges farmers to prepare for Climate-Inducedweather variations
Farmers advised to take immediate action against fungal diseases, pests, and heatwave effects on crops
Shimla, May 21
In a collaborative effort, Ch Sharwan Kumar Agriculture University Palampur and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) have issued a joint weather alert, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention to address climate-induced weather variations. The two-page communique, released on Friday, highlighted the potential impact of high temperatures and slightly elevated humidity levels, which pose a growing threat of fungal diseases and harmful pests on cash crops, off-season vegetables like tomatoes and capsicum, as well as poultry farms.
According to the IMD, the prevailing weather patterns are expected to remain variable over the next week, with light clouds (0-7 octa) forecasted in most areas. During the next five days, from May 20 to May 24, the district of Sirmaur is likely to experience rainfall of around 10mm, accompanied by a wind speed of 12-15 km/h. The relative humidity in the atmosphere is expected to range between 10% and 36%. The maximum temperature will range from 29-32°C, while the minimum temperature is anticipated to be between 19-21°C.
To stay updated on weather information and receive meteorological crop advice and lightning warnings, farmers are advised to download the Mausam Application, Meghdoot App, and Damini App. These apps can provide timely and relevant information for better crop production, offering valuable insights for farmers to incorporate into their daily routines
The advisory highlights the importance of maintaining moisture in the fields, implementing mulching techniques, and keeping the fields clean from bushes. These measures not only improve root growth but also help conserve water. Additionally, due to the possibility of scanty rainfall, farmers are advised to irrigate their fields and apply fungicides, insecticides, or fertilizers if necessary.
The university specifically warns farmers against ignoring horticultural advice, as heatwaves can have detrimental effects on plants, causing back-breaking symptoms and wilting. For tomato cultivation, the university recommends treating soil T beds with formalin (one liter per 7-10 liters of water) 15-20 days before transplanting. Seeds should only be sown once the smell of formalin dissipates from the soil. In case of disease symptoms, the beds should be treated with Mancozeb (25 grams per 10 liters of water).
Capsicum farmers are also alerted to the possibility of cow plant diseases damaging their crops. The university advises treating plant beds with formalin (one liter per 7-10 liters of water) 15-20 days prior to transplanting. Seeds should be sown only when the formalin odor dissipates. Treating the beds with Mancozeb (25 grams per 10 liters of water) is recommended to prevent diseases such as seasonal wilting and Fusarium wilt.
Farmers cultivating stone fruits and guava are cautioned about the seasonal pest, Blister Beetle. This pest feeds on flower parts, leaves, and sucks the plant’s juice, leading to decreased okra yield. To combat this pest, farmers are advised to treat their plants with Malathion by sprinkling one milliliter (Cythion and Malathion 50 Ec) dissolved in one liter of water.
In the realm of animal husbandry, dairy owners are advised to ensure well-ventilated cattle sheds, with the arrangement of fans and sprinklers during peak summer. Animals should be protected from direct sunlight, and clean and abundant water should be provided throughout the day. Vaccinations against HS-BQ and FMD are recommended
