The first rainfall after wheat sowing has brought much-needed relief and joy to farmers, as it has lowered temperatures and increased moisture in the air. Additionally, the rain helped clean dust particles from wheat leaves, enhancing crop health.
Experts from the Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) have termed the rainfall highly beneficial for the wheat crop, which is currently at the crown root initiation to tillering stage. Dr Ratan Tiwari, Director of IIWBR, said, “The rainfall is highly beneficial for the wheat crop at this stage. The cool temperatures and increased moisture will promote healthy growth.”
Dr Tiwari noted that the rain would delay sowing in some late-sowing areas due to slower field preparation. “The rainfall is little, but it will delay sowing in late-sowing areas by a few days,” he added.
The rainfall also plays a crucial role in settling soil around the seeds, ensuring better germination, and naturally cleaning leaves to improve photosynthesis efficiency, which is vital for robust crop growth.
India produced 113.3 million tonnes of wheat last season, and the country has set a target of 115 million tonnes for this season. “With the efforts of farmers and high-yielding varieties, we are hopeful of achieving this target,” said Dr Tiwari.
Farmers in the region have cultivated varieties such as DBW 187, DBW 222, DBW 303, DBW 327, DBW 332, DBW 370, DBW 371, DBW 372, and DBW 316.
Ravinder Kumar, a farmer, shared his optimism: “The shower that occurred on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday has brought some relief to the farming community. If similar weather persists in the coming days, it will be very beneficial and help us achieve good production.”
The rainfall has also delayed the need for irrigation and is expected to reduce crop stress, further promoting better growth in the weeks ahead.