Abstract

Soil moisture stress in rainfed agriculture poses a major threat to crop productivity and sustainability, especially under climate change. Erratic rainfall, dry spells, and rising temperatures worsen moisture loss, reduce infiltration, deplete nutrients, and harm microbial activity. These factors lead to declining yields and soil health. Effective mitigation strategies include mulching, conservation tillage, cover cropping, rainwater harvesting, and micro-irrigation. Soil amendments like compost and biochar improve moisture retention, while agroforestry stabilises ecosystems. Weather-based crop planning and drought-resilient crops enhance adaptability. Sustaining productivity requires integrated water management, climate-smart practices, farmer training, and policy support for long-term resilience and food security.