This system is in the dry subhumid area where the main rainfed cereals are barley and some wheat with annual or two-year fallow. Occasionally legumes (chickpeas and lentils) may be grown in higher-rainfall areas. Interactions with pastoral systems are strong as sheep may graze whole-crop barley in a dry year and the stubble of the harvested crop in average or wetter years after the end of the cropping period. Small areas of irrigated vegetables may be grown in association with these systems. Rainfed barley is grown as a whole-crop fodder or, in good years, for both grain and fodder. Cropping is highly dependent on rainfall, and the whole system is vulnerable to inter-annual and seasonal rainfall variations. In the recent past, there has been a decline in wheat area and renewed use of indigenous barley varieties. The most critical issue appears to be limited access to new crops and varieties. Some of the more arid areas with lighter soils have severe wind erosion problems during the dry season. Overgrazing is also a problem.

<< Previous - [Page 38 of 171] - Next >>