SAARC Agriculture Centre webinar highlights climate-resilient cropping systems to reduce farmer risks across South Asia region. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, April 16, 2026 (BSS) - The SAARC Agriculture Centre has organized a webinar emphasizing the adoption of climate-resilient alternative cropping systems to reduce risks faced by farmers.

More than 150 experts and stakeholders from across South Asia participated in the webinar today. 

Senior Programme Specialist (Crops) of the centre Dr. Sikandar Khan Tanveer delivered the welcome address. He said that in the context of changing climate and growing uncertainties, there is no alternative to adaptive and sustainable cropping systems to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods.

The keynote papers were presented by Director of the centre Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid and Senior Scientist of ICAR-IIFSR, India, Dr. Meraj Alam Ansari.

Dr. Harunur Rashid stressed the importance of linking cropping systems with value chains and strengthening marketing systems from farm to consumer. He noted that daily, monthly, and seasonal early warning systems can support location-specific decision-making by farmers.

He also highlighted that GIS and remote sensing technologies are playing a vital role in precision agriculture, enabling data-driven planning and efficient use of resources. 

“The use of drones and various sensors can reduce wastage of water and fertilizers,” he added. 

Dr. Meraj Alam Ansari said farmers face multiple risks, including climate-related challenges such as drought, excessive heat, irregular rainfall, and floods, as well as market volatility and forced low-price sales. 

He also pointed out challenges like fragmented landholdings, limited mechanization, financial constraints, pest and disease infestations, water scarcity, and declining soil fertility.

The webinar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session with participants. 

In his closing remarks, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat in Nepal Tanveer Ahmed Tarafdar  emphasized the need to strengthen regional cooperation.

He said South Asian countries face common challenges in the agriculture sector, and therefore joint initiatives are essential to develop effective and scalable solutions. He also called for enhanced knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and policy coordination among the countries.