Farmers across several states are facing significant losses to Rabi crops due to unseasonal hailstorms. In response, CropLife India has issued a Zaid Crop Advisory, urging farmers to act quickly and strategically during this critical cropping window. The organisation emphasises timely sowing, science-based crop protection, and responsible sourcing of agricultural inputs to stabilise farm incomes this year.
Multiple Challenges Ahead of the Zaid Season
Farmers are entering the Zaid season under considerable pressure. Successive western disturbances have damaged harvest-ready Rabi crops in Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Consequently, authorities have accelerated coordinated crop loss assessments, while many farmers are experiencing delays in field preparation.
At the same time, global supply chain disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict have increased input costs, especially for crop protection products. Although the government has temporarily waived customs duties on key petrochemical inputs, farmers are unlikely to see immediate cost relief.
Moreover, weather forecasts indicate further uncertainty. Private forecaster Skymet projects a below-normal monsoon at around 94% of the long-period average, with a 30% probability of drought. Similarly, NOAA predicts a 62% chance of El Niño conditions developing between June and August. As per the press release, these factors make Zaid crop returns crucial as a financial buffer before the Kharif season.
Advisory Focus: Timely Action and Scientific Practices
CropLife India stresses that farmers must act without delay to maximise Zaid season benefits. Timely sowing remains essential, as even short delays can reduce yields by compressing the growing period.
In addition, farmers should adopt heat-tolerant crop varieties and maintain irrigation at intervals of five to seven days. Using mulch can help conserve soil moisture, while regular pest monitoring is necessary to manage threats such as red spider mites, aphids, and fruit flies, which thrive in summer conditions.
Residual moisture from unseasonal rains increases the risk of fungal diseases. Therefore, farmers should apply crop protection products based on actual need and strictly follow label directions and Good Agricultural Practices.
Rising Risk of Counterfeit Inputs
Uncertainty in global supply chains continues to create price volatility and supply gaps. As a result, the risk of counterfeit or substandard crop protection products entering the market has increased.
Farmers must remain vigilant and purchase inputs only from licensed dealers. They should also verify product authenticity and adhere to all usage guidelines. This precaution is especially important during the Zaid season, where even a single ineffective application can lead to complete crop loss.
Recommended Practices for Zaid Crops
The advisory outlines key practices for short-duration summer crops such as watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, bitter gourd, moong dal, and fodder maize grown between March and June.
To improve productivity, farmers should:
- Sow crops early to ensure harvest before the monsoon
- Use drip irrigation to enhance water efficiency
- Apply organic or plastic mulch to retain soil moisture
- Monitor fields regularly and apply crop protection measures when required
Additionally, farmers can use mechanisation to speed up land preparation within the short Zaid window. Intercropping with legumes like moong can also help maintain soil nitrogen levels and improve soil health.
Conclusion: Supporting Farmers Through Uncertainty
As per the press release, CropLife India reaffirms its commitment to supporting farmers through timely advisories, stewardship initiatives, and the promotion of Good Agricultural Practices. By adopting these recommendations, farmers can better navigate current challenges and safeguard their incomes during this crucial agricultural season.
