Himachal Pradesh Faces Water Stress Due to Prolonged Dry Spell

Shimla, Dec 22 – Himachal Pradesh has been experiencing a prolonged dry spell of about 70 days after the last rainfall on October 9, leading to significant water stress across crops, including fruit plants, according to Dr Y.S. Parmar from the University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni. Experts have advised farmers on measures to mitigate the impact of drought stress, noting erratic rainfall patterns in the state with moderate to irregular distribution. Traditionally, November receives below-normal rainfall in nearly 68.2% of the years, with 30-50% of soil moisture lost through evaporation in sub-humid mid-hill regions, a figure likely to increase under current conditions. With nearly 70% of the state’s area being rainfed, adopting moisture-conservation agronomic practices has become essential to combat the common recurrence of drought during these months. Insufficient soil moisture during the dry spell may adversely affect fruit plant saplings, leading to hampered root development, restricted nutrient uptake, and increased susceptibility to diseases. Experts recommend postponing new plantations of deciduous fruit crops until moisture conditions improve, while ensuring life-saving irrigation for completed plantations, preferably through drip irrigation systems combined with mulching. Mulching, with an ideal thickness of 5 to 10 cm, helps retain moisture, suppress weed growth, moderate soil temperature, and add organic matter to the soil upon decomposition. Advisories also include avoiding digging of tree basins to prevent additional moisture loss, minimal pruning during drought conditions, and refraining from applying chemical fertilizers until adequate soil moisture is restored. However, the application of well-decomposed farmyard manure is encouraged to improve soil health. Farmers are urged to visit fields of those practicing natural farming or designated research stations to observe natural farming demonstrations, with recommendations for specific practices like applying Jeevamrit, freshening the Whaapsa line, and using mulch to protect crops.