climate resilient techniques

How an ancient UV-B defence mechanism shaped the evolution of the first land plants

Unseasonal rain, hailstorms and heatwaves during April-May adversely impacted fruit crops across the country. From Bihar to Maharashtra, TOI visits orchards to assess the extent of damage and its economic cost

Prime Minister Modi's recent five-nation tour saw him present world leaders with culturally rich Indian gifts. From Assam's golden Muga silk to Manipur's Shirui Lily stoles and Agra's marble inlay boxes, these presents showcased India's diverse traditional crafts, agricultural bounty, and musical heritage, fostering cultural exchange.

A new study reveals that climate change and rapid development, including infrastructure expansion and hill cutting, are major drivers of landslides in the Western Ghats. Researchers found that nearly 72% of landslides occurred near developed areas, highlighting the impact of human activities alongside intense rainfall.

Bihar's farming landscape is on the verge of a transformative shift with the innovative work from Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, which has pioneered a 'carbon budget map' alongside a 'climate smart agricultural model'. Utilizing cutting-edge technology from an Eddy Covariance tower, farmers are now accessing vital real-time data to cultivate more resilient cropping strategies.

Rapid climate change is overwhelming ecosystems like redwoods and seagrass, threatening biodiversity. Scientists are now using conservation genomics to identify and propagate species resilient to extreme conditions, aiding restoration efforts. While promising for long-lived species, this approach isn't a standalone solution and reducing emissions remains paramount for ecosystem survival.

Oil India Limited has achieved a decade-high annual natural gas production from Rajasthan's Jaisalmer basin, producing 254.90 MMSCM in FY 2025-26. This record output, crucial for India's energy security amidst global supply concerns, significantly supports Rajasthan's power generation. The company's success highlights advanced technology and resilience in challenging desert conditions.

Gardeners can combat extreme weather and water restrictions with a simple, time-tested solution: straw mulch. Experts reveal how a 2-3 inch layer of wheat straw insulates soil, moderates temperature and retains moisture. Proper application around plant stems and between rows is key to protecting roots and reducing water use, ensuring thriving gardens.

In a drive to safeguard food security amidst the looming threat of climate change, agricultural authorities gathered in Pusa. Emphasizing the need for climate-resilient farming techniques, they called for innovative approaches to crop breeding and advanced water management strategies as ways to tackle the challenges posed by extreme temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns.