Smart Irrigation Saves Chickpea-Pea Crops Amidst Erratic Rains

• Erratic weather and lack of winter rains in December-January are impacting pulse crops like chickpeas, lentils, and peas.
• Pulse crops require light and controlled moisture, not heavy irrigation, as excessive water can harm roots.
• Mini sprinkler systems are ideal for providing fine sprays and maintaining topsoil moisture for pulse crops.
• Farmers without sprinklers can use tractor-driven spray pumps with fine nozzles to achieve similar results at low cost.
• Regular light spraying every 5-6 days with a high-pressure pump prevents drought shock, reduces flower drop, and increases yield.

Why It Matters: Farmers can save pulse crops from drought using smart, low-cost irrigation methods like mini sprinklers or tractor spray pumps.