High temperature poses threat to wheat crop in Uttar Pradesh

13-Feb-2025 12:25 PM

The unexpected rise in temperature in Uttar Pradesh, India's leading wheat-producing state, is causing concern for the wheat crop.

While the sowing area is normal for the Rabi season, the elevated daytime temperatures in eastern Uttar Pradesh are affecting crop development.

The minimum temperature has risen above 15°C, reducing the difference between day and night temperatures.

This can stunt the growth of the wheat plants, resulting in smaller plants, fewer ears, and a decrease in the number of grains per ear.

If the temperature doesn't drop or if rainfall doesn't occur in the next 10-15 days, crop yields could be negatively impacted.

Currently, the situation in western Uttar Pradesh is not as dire, with temperatures remaining near normal levels. However, experts predict that eastern Uttar Pradesh may see a reduction in wheat yields by 2-3 quintals per hectare due to the ongoing temperature rise.

The state's wheat production is still expected to increase by 4.7% this season, reaching an estimated 322.5 lakh tonnes, which is about 25% of the national wheat production.

This is crucial since Uttar Pradesh's wheat contributes significantly to India's central pool of wheat reserves.

If the temperatures stabilize or rainfall occurs soon, the crop may recover, but the next few weeks are critical for its development.