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DM Asmita Lal, IAS shares the story at Regional Agri Policy Dialogue by Sustainability Matters
Baraut (Baghpat), May 14: In a major push towards climate-resilient agriculture and with long-term implications for water conservation, the Baghpat administration has started encouraging farmers in the sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh to adopt chia seeds and other less water-intensive crops, with early results showing higher returns and lower crop risks.
Addressing the Regional Policy Dialogue on Climate Change & Impact on Agriculture on Thursday, District Magistrate & Collector Asmita Lal said the district administration had brought in an external agricultural expert to train farmers in chia cultivation and also established forward and backward market linkages for growers. “Climate change is no longer a distant concern. We have to promote sustainable and resilient farming models that also improve farmer incomes,” Lal said.
A traditional sugarcane-producing district, Baghpat is now witnessing farmers gradually shifting towards chia cultivation, including through intercropping alongside sugarcane. Officials said the crop requires significantly less water, withstands hailstorms and erratic weather, and is also unaffected by the menace of nilgai, making it a viable alternative for farmers. The administration is also promoting corn cultivation in the district with expert support.
The regional consultation, organised by Sustainability Matters and IndiAgri at Janta Vedic (PG) College, brought together farmers, FPOs, agri experts and policymakers as part of the ongoing National Sustainable Agriculture Summit & Awards series. Lal also felicitated progressive farmers for their contribution to sustainable agriculture.
Speaking at the event, Dr Navneet Anand, Executive Director, Sustainability Matters, said erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and groundwater stress were increasingly impacting agriculture across Uttar Pradesh. “Climate impacts and threats remain as relevant today as in the past, and as pressing for people of Brussels as in Baghpat. It is therefore critical that we collectively devise effective strategies and solutions for a sustainable future,” he said.
Vashishth Kumar Nayak, Senior Manager, KRIBHCO, reiterated the importance of quality inputs in making agriculture more resilient to climate change. He said farmers should focus on certified seeds, balanced crop nutrition and timely technical guidance to improve productivity and reduce risks. In the changing climate scenario, he added, reliable seeds and scientific farming practices will play a key role in helping farmers achieve better yields and stable income.
Chairperson for the panel discussion Prof GP Singh, Dean (Agriculture), Janta Vedic College, highlighted the importance of irrigation efficiency, water conservation, crop diversification, and stronger agricultural value chains. Applauding the hard work of farmers of Baghpat and UP, Prof Singh said, “The decisive policy push has led UP to become India’s leading sugarcane producer with over 54% share of national production. To retain this position, we must be aware of the threats of climate change, and solutions around it.”
District Agriculture Officer Bal Govind Yadav underlined the role of initiatives such as Khet Talaab Yojana, ODOP and agri-infrastructure development in strengthening rural livelihoods. The event was also attended by SDM Bhawana Singh.
