Unpredictable Rainfall and Soaring Temperatures: How Climate Change is Impacting Farmers

The world is changing, and we see it in our everyday weather. This is particularly true in India, where the climate has taken a dramatic turn lately.

In early 2025, India faced unusual climate issues. Farmers are feeling the heat. Just a few months ago, unexpected rains in May hit Southern and Western India hard. These rains damaged crops and drove up food prices.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warned about this in its Sixth Assessment Report. It highlighted that climate change is harming crop yields worldwide. In fact, agriculture, forestry, and land use contribute to 22% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This means agriculture is both a victim and a cause of climate change.

India’s Economic Survey for 2024–25 underscores rising food prices linked to climate impacts. More cyclones are causing significant crop damage across the country. Extreme weather, like unseasonable rains and intense heat, is pushing many farmers into tough situations. For example, a series of hailstorms in Haryana this March damaged mustard and sunflower crops, disrupting oilseed production.

Crops like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes—often referred to as the “TOP” crops—are particularly affected. Erratic rainfall in key states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh has led to a sharp increase in tomato prices. Analysts predict further hikes in onion prices in the weeks ahead. This situation doesn’t just impact farmers; it disrupts the entire food supply chain.

Unexpected rain can create chaos, causing sudden shortages and driving prices upward. Poor infrastructure, like damaged roads and inadequate storage, only complicates matters. Additionally, pests that thrive in warmer climates are causing even more crop losses.

Ramesh Chand from NITI Aayog recently spoke at a conference focused on “Innovating for Climate Resilient Agriculture.” He mentioned that wheat yields are expected to decline by about 4% over the next three decades due to climate change. This is alarming not only for food supplies but also for the livelihoods of millions who depend on agriculture.

Experts agree that agriculture should be a priority in global treaties and policies. It’s crucial for sustaining life on Earth. We need to enhance food storage systems, improve transportation networks, and promote sustainable farming practices. These steps are not just helpful—they are essential.

Recent data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) shows that we could see a 50% increase in global food prices if current trends continue. Social media reflects public concern, with many discussions about food security and support for local farmers trending online.

The clock is ticking. If we don’t take action now, the repercussions will only get worse.



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