Punjab’s Kharif agriculture is highly dependent on the southwest monsoon, which is becoming increasingly erratic due to climate change. Recent trends indicate a decline in the number of rainy days along with a rise in the frequency of short-duration, high-intensity rainfall events. These changes are leading to waterlogging, nutrient losses and crop stress in major Kharif crops such as paddy, cotton, maize and pulses. This article highlights the importance of shifting from traditional rainfall-based farming decisions to weather-informed agricultural management. It emphasizes the role of short and medium range weather forecasts and agrometeorological advisories in improving farm decisions related to irrigation, fertilizer application, pesticide spraying and field operations. Furthermore, it underlines the increased risk of pest and disease outbreaks under humid monsoon conditions and the importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Efficient water management during intermittent dry spells is also stressed, considering declining groundwater resources in Punjab. Overall, it advises for a weather-smart, climate-resilient farming approach to enhance productivity, reduce risks and ensure sustainable Kharif crop production under changing monsoon conditions.
Monsoon variability, Kharif crops, weather-based farming, agrometeorological advisories
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