Time management governs climate resilience and productivity in the coupled rice–wheat cropping systems of eastern India
Year: 2022
Type: article
Abstract: India will need to produce 30% more wheat by 2050, and these gains must principally come from intensification in eastern India where low productivity is common. Through a dense network of on-farm surveys for the rice-wheat system in this region, we show that contemporary wheat sowing dates have a central influence on achieved and attainable yields, superseding all other crop management, soil and varietal factors. We estimate that untapped wheat production potential will increase by 69% with achievable adjustments to wheat sowing dates without incurring undesirable trade-offs with rice productivity, irrigation requirements or profitability. Our findings also indicate that transformative gains in wheat yields are only possible in eastern India if rice and wheat are managed as a coupled system. Steps taken to 'keep time' through better management of the annual cropping calendar will pay dividends for food security, profitability and climate resilience now and as a foundation for adaptation to progressive climate change.
Source: Nature Food
Institutions: Cornell University, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, International Rice Research Institute, Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz Y Trigo, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, International Food Policy Research Institute, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Bihar Agricultural University
Language: English
Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Zero hunger, Climate action
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $12,240
OpenAlex ID: W4286498159