Weekly rainfall for crop planning in northern coastal region of Goa.
Manivannan S., Kumar J. A., Prabhudesai H. R.
Author Affiliation: Central Soil and Water Conservation Research & Training Institute, Research Centre, Fernhill (PO), Udhagamandalam - 643 004, India.
Journal of Agrometeorology 12 : 268-269
Abstract : Weekly rainfall data for 31 years (1969-99) recorded at Panaji of the northern coastal region of Goa were obtained from the Indian Meteorological Department in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Data analysis revealed that the maximum amount of rainfall (199.1 mm) occurs during the 25th week (18-24 June). At 70% probability level, rainfall is received every meteorological week from the 23rd week to the 40th week. Field preparation and tillage can be initiated during the 22nd week. Rainfall of 59.6 mm received from the 4th week to 10 June will be sufficient for direct-sown rice and other kharif crops. Sowing of seasonal vegetables may be conducted during the 23th week. Planting of horticultural crops such as coconut, cashew, mango and other minor fruits can be carried out on the 24th week. Preparation of the nursery for rice can be conducted during the 23rd week (4-10 June), when rainfall of 98.4 mm (60% probability level) is expected. Sowing of rice in the nursery can be carried out during the 24th week; this enables the transplanting of rice on the 28th week, when rainfall of 74.6 mm is expected (80% probability level). Monsoon rain can produce excess rainfall from the 24th week to the 30th week. Sowing of rabi crops may be carried out on the 35th week (predicted rainfall of 45.4 mm at 70% probability level). A long dry spell occurs from the 44th week onwards (60% probability level); thus, rabi crops resistant to drought must be selected for this region. The amount of rainfall from the 44th week (29 October-4 November) onwards (60% probability level) is low; thus, supplemental irrigation is essential for rabi crops during this period.