Farmers and scientists in eastern India are leveraging ancient rice seeds to address the adverse effects of climate change, including flooding, drought, and soil salinity. The initiative sees local rice growers utilizing ancestral agricultural practices to sustain their families in an increasingly hostile environment. The BBC’s William Kremer reports from the Sundarbans in West Bengal, highlighting the significance of these efforts for the region’s agricultural resilience.
The BBC’s William Kremer explores how ancient rice seeds are being utilized by farmers and scientists in eastern India to combat the challenges posed by climate change. In his report, he visits the Sundarbans in West Bengal, an area heavily impacted by cyclones and rising sea levels, leading to the devastation of crops. By employing traditional techniques passed down through generations, local rice growers are striving to enhance their food security amidst increasing soil salinity and drought conditions. Dr. Rafal Gutaker, a rice expert at Kew Gardens in London, provides a broader perspective on these efforts on a global scale.
For those interested in further discussions on rice and its climate implications, the BBC World Service’s Food Chain program has recently aired an episode specifically addressing this topic.
The initiative of using ancient rice seeds represents a significant step towards sustainable agriculture in the face of climate challenges. This practice not only preserves farming traditions but also provides a viable solution for communities grappling with adverse environmental changes. With the insights from experts and the resilience of local farmers, there is hope for enhancing food security while mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
