What is the major constraint in dry land farming?

The correct answer is Low water availability.

Key Points

• Dryland farming refers to agricultural practices in regions where rainfall is insufficient, typically less than 750 mm annually, making water availability a critical constraint.
• The primary challenge in dryland farming is low soil moisture due to minimal rainfall, which limits crop growth and productivity.
• Crops grown in such areas are primarily drought-resistant varieties, such as millets, sorghum, and pulses, as they can survive with limited water.
• Dryland farming areas are also prone to soil erosion, which further reduces the land's capacity to retain water.
• Efficient water management techniques, such as rainwater harvesting and mulching, are critical to overcoming water scarcity in these regions.

Additional Information

• Dryland Farming:
  • It is a type of farming practiced in arid and semi-arid regions with low rainfall.
  • Relies on moisture conservation techniques like deep plowing, contour farming, and minimal tillage to retain soil moisture.
  • Crops such as pearl millet, chickpeas, and groundnuts are commonly grown in dryland farming systems.
• Soil Moisture Management:
  • Techniques like mulching (covering soil with organic matter) help conserve moisture and prevent evaporation.
  • Use of micro-irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, ensures precise water delivery to crops.
• Rainwater Harvesting:
  • Collecting and storing rainwater for agricultural use is a common practice in dryland regions.
  • Helps supplement water availability during dry spells.
• Drought-Resistant Crops:
  • These crops have evolved to survive with minimal water, making them ideal for dryland farming.
  • Examples include millets, sorghum, pigeon peas, and certain oilseeds like sesame.