IMPACT OF TEMPERATURE ADN PRECIPITATION ON RICE PRODUCTIVITY IN RICE-WHEAT CROPPING SYSTEM OF PUNJAB PROVINCE

Pattern of temperature and precipitation are changing due to global warming, resulting in having impact on crop productivity. The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of climatic variables on rice productivity in the rice-wheat cropping system of the Punjab. Aggregated time series data were used for rice crop. Cobb Douglas type production function was employed with rice yield as dependent variable and climatic factors as independent variables. Results showed that an increase in temperature by 1.5 degrees C and 3 degrees C would enhance rice yield by 2.09% and 4.33%, respectively compared to the base year regression estimates. However, an increase in precipitation by 5% and 15% during September-October could adversely affect rice productivity by 5.71% and 15.26%, respectively. However, its decrease is positively related with rice yield. Evolving and disseminating rice varieties having adaptation to climate change should be the focus of future research and development. Improved farm management practices, creating awareness among farmers about climate change and strengthening extension department are some measures to be taken for adaptation to climate change in the rice region.