2 weeks ago

CAZRI Urges Andhra Pradesh, Telangana to Adopt Desert Farming

The Central Arid Zone Research Institute, or CAZRI, studies how to grow crops in very dry places.

Its scientists said Andhra Pradesh and Telangana could use some of Rajasthan’s successful farming methods.

These methods include collecting water in farm ponds and growing crops that need less water.

CAZRI also works with research groups in Hyderabad.

The institute helped develop a pearl millet variety called Maru Moti.

Rajasthan has reduced the spread of desert land and made more land suitable for farming.

Farmers there now grow cumin, isabgol and pomegranates in dry conditions.

CAZRI trains farmers and local workers so they can share these methods with other communities.

Key facts

Institute: Central Arid Zone Research Institute was established in 1952 as a desert afforestation station.
Desertification reduction: Rajasthan reportedly reduced desertification by 3.87 lakh hectares.
Dune stabilization: CAZRI worked on stabilizing 4.8 lakh acres of sand dunes.
Irrigated agriculture: The share of irrigated agriculture in the desert area increased from 10% to 30%.
Pearl millet: CAZRI developed the Maru Moti variety using genetic material sourced from ICRISAT in Hyderabad.
Major crops: The article says Rajasthan produces 65% of the world’s cumin and 95% of its isabgol.
Water management: Diggis, or farm ponds, collect excess canal water and rainwater for agricultural use.

thehansindia.com · 2 weeks ago