Technologies for adaptation of agriculture to climate change in Kyrgyzstan
Abstract
Climate change significantly impacts agricultural productivity, especially in arid regions such as Kyrgyzstan. The cultivation of drought-resistant crops and the introduction of innovative agricultural technologies are key measures to ensure the sustainability of the agricultural sector. The study aimed to assess the efficiency of growing drought-tolerant crops (sorghum, chickpea and millet) in Kyrgyzstan, as well as to analyse the impact of modern technologies, such as drip irrigation, on productivity and efficiency of water use. The study was conducted during two growing seasons (2023-2024) in an experimental field in Kyrgyzstan. Yields were determined by harvesting 1 m2 plots and then converting to hectare. Water use was measured using Delta-T Devices soil moisture meters (10, 20 and 30 cm depths). Water use efficiency (WUE) was calculated as the ratio of crop yield to water use. Crop conditions were monitored using DJI Agras T30 drones and Sentinel-2 satellite imagery. The results of the study confirmed the high performance of sorghum and pearl millet under drought conditions. Sorghum showed the highest yield of 4.2 tonnes/ha due to its well-developed root system and ability to use moisture efficiently. Millet showed the best WUE – 0.9 kg/m3 – and the lowest water use (4000 litres/ha), making it an optimal crop for water-stressed regions. Chickpea, despite its lower yield (1.8 t/ha), proved promising due to its nitrogen-fixing properties that improve soil fertility. The use of drip irrigation reduced water consumption by 20-30%, ensuring stable yields even under water deficit conditions. Monitoring using drones and moisture meters helped to optimise irrigation, improving the accuracy of water management. The study confirmed the efficacy of sorghum and pearl millet as key crops for arid regions, and the feasibility of integrating drip irrigation to improve agricultural sustainability. The results of the study provided science-based recommendations for farmers and policymakers on the introduction of drought-resistant crops and modern agricultural technologies in Kyrgyzstan, which will contribute to food security and sustainability of the agricultural sector under climate change conditions
Keywords
drought; drought-tolerant crops; moisture; sorghum; millet; chickpea; irrigation system; water use
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