Ancient Rice Seeds: A Solution to Climate Change Challenges in India
Farmers in eastern India are employing ancient rice seeds to tackle climate change challenges like flooding and drought. A BBC report highlights their use of ancestral farming skills amidst environmental threats. Experts like Dr. Rafal Gutaker contribute insights on the global impact of these practices, emphasizing their importance for food security.
In eastern India, particularly in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal, farmers and scientists are utilizing ancient rice seeds to combat the adverse effects of climate change, such as flooding, increased soil salinity, and drought. Renowned BBC reporter William Kremer shares insights from his visit to the area, highlighting the devastation caused by cyclones and rising sea levels that have significantly impacted crop yields. The farmers, relying on ancestral knowledge and practices, strive to sustain their families by cultivating these resilient rice varieties. Additionally, Dr. Rafal Gutaker, a rice expert from Kew Gardens in London, provides a broader perspective on the global implications of these agricultural practices.
For those interested in learning more about rice and its climate-related challenges, the BBC World Service’s Food Chain program has released an episode addressing the environmental impacts of this vital crop.
The production team behind this segment comprises talented individuals, including Diane Richardson, Graihagh Jackson, and Octavia Woodward, with sound mixing by Neil Churchill and Tom Brignell, under the editorial guidance of Simon Watts.
The use of ancient rice seeds by farmers in the Sundarbans exemplifies an innovative approach to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture. By leveraging traditional farming techniques, these farmers are working to ensure food security for their families amid increasingly hostile environmental conditions. The insights from experts such as Dr. Rafal Gutaker further emphasize the significance of these practices in addressing global agricultural challenges.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
