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A long dry spell has pushed the Dhanusha of Madhes Province into a deep farming crisis. The lack of proper rainfall for more than 15 days has left rice fields dry and cracked, putting this year’s rice planting season—and farmers’ livelihoods—at serious risk.

For most farmers in Dhanusha, rice is not just a crop; it is their main source of food and income. The region relies heavily on the monsoon rains that usually arrive in early July. But this year, the rains have been unusually late and weak. In the last 24 hours, Hardinath Meteorological Station in Dhanusha witnessed 12.6 mm of rainfall, which is significantly low. Without them, rice saplings cannot be transplanted into the fields, and without transplanting, there will be no harvest.

The problem is now so serious that the Madhes Province Government has officially declared several districts, including Dhanusha, as drought-hit zones. This declaration is a clear signal that the situation needs urgent attention and support from both the provincial and federal governments.

“We haven’t had proper rain in over two weeks,” said Nanda Kishore Pokhrel, a farmer from Chhireshwarnath Municipality-5. “I’ve tried to water my 9-katha field using a motor connected to a hand pump, but the water level is too low, and the system isn’t working properly. The seeds I want to plant are drying up in the heat. If we don’t get rain soon, everything will be ruined.”

Like Pokhrel, many farmers across the district are struggling to save their crops. Usually, by mid-July, rice transplanting would be in full swing. But this year, the dry soil has stopped the work. Some farmers have given up altogether, while others are holding out hope for rain. But as each day passes without rain, that hope begins to fade.

Sudeep Chaudhary, plant protection officer at the Directorate of Agriculture Development, Madesh Province, warns that if rain does not come within the next week, a large part of the rice crop could fail. This would lead not only to food shortages in local households but also to a drop in income for thousands of families who depend on farming.

In response, provincial officials have started assessing the damage and are planning to support farmers by providing drought-resistant seeds and improving access to water for irrigation. However, many farmers say help is coming too slowly.

“We need immediate help,” said Pokhrel. “We need water, pumps that work, and seeds that can grow even in dry conditions. Without that, we will face huge losses. For some families, this could mean going hungry.”

Local leaders and farming groups are now urging the federal government to take quick action. They are asking for emergency relief packages, funding for irrigation systems, and long-term plans to deal with the growing effects of climate change on farming.

As the sky remains cloudless and the sun continues to beat down, the farming communities of Dhanusha wait, watching the sky, hoping for rain, and fearing what might happen if it doesn’t come.

This crisis in Dhanusha is a reminder of how fragile agriculture can be in the face of changing weather. It also shows the urgent need for better support systems, more reliable irrigation, and stronger disaster response plans to protect the farmers who feed the nation.

Climate change, an existential threat to humanity, demands immediate action from all segments of society. With each passing day, the impact of global warming becomes more evident, leaving future generations vulnerable to its devastating consequences. In this critical juncture, today’s youth play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future. By actively engaging in climate activism and getting involved in politics, young people can spearhead positive changes for society and the environment.

The urgency of the climate crisis requires a united effort from all generations, but the youth holds a unique position in driving a transformative change. As the inheritors of the planet, they possess a vested interest in safeguarding its future. Harnessing youthful energy, passion, and determination can ignite a wave of action against climate change.

The power of youth lies in their potential to mobilize and amplify their voices, both locally and globally. Through grassroots movements and digital platforms, they can raise awareness, disseminate information, and influence public opinion on climate issues. By leveraging social media, they can reach a wide audience, sparking conversations that inspire collective action.

Young climate activists have already demonstrated their efficacy in raising awareness about climate change’s urgency. Initiatives like the Global Climate Strikes, led by youth activists like Greta Thunberg, have drawn global attention to the climate crisis and compelled leaders to address climate issues in policy-making.

While youth-led activism is vital, it must be complemented by active participation in politics. Engaging with the political system allows young people to have a direct impact on climate policies and decisions. By running for political office or actively supporting candidates with strong climate agendas, they can shape the direction of climate policy at local, national, and international levels.

Political involvement empowers young people to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to climate-related challenges. It ensures that climate change remains a top priority in legislative agendas, fostering the implementation of sustainable practices and green initiatives. Young politicians can be catalysts for progressive climate policies, advocating for renewable energy, conservation measures, and carbon reduction strategies.

Furthermore, youth representation in politics is crucial for fostering intergenerational dialogue. It bridges the gap between decision-makers and future generations. Such a dialogue is essential for crafting inclusive and long-term policies that protect the environment, promoting a harmonious coexistence between nature and society.

Inclusion of youth voices in political decision-making processes is also a fundamental aspect of democratic governance. It strengthens democracy by promoting diversity of thought and ensuring that the concerns of all citizens, especially those inheriting the planet, are heard and addressed.

To encourage more youth involvement in politics, educational institutions and community organizations must prioritize civic education and engagement. Equipping young individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for active citizenship will empower them to advocate for change effectively. Furthermore, mentorship programs and internships can offer firsthand experiences in the political arena, nurturing a generation of informed and inspired leaders.

Young people need to seize every opportunity to influence policy-making, from participating in local town hall meetings to joining youth councils and community boards. By making their voices heard in decision-making processes, they can push for policies that prioritize sustainability and climate action.

Climate change presents a formidable challenge that demands a collective response from all of society. Today’s youth are the torchbearers of this response, armed with the passion and determination to create positive changes for society. By actively engaging in climate activism and politics, young people can effectively take a stand against climate change and drive transformative action for a sustainable future. Their involvement is essential to ensure that climate concerns remain at the forefront of policy agendas, fostering a harmonious relationship between society and the environment for generations to come.