Weather variability effects on wheat yield in South-Western region of Punjab

Historical data (2001–02 to 2016–17) on different meteorological parameters, viz. maximum temperature, minimum temperature and rainfall of Bathinda representing southwest Punjab were analyzed. Data indicate that the maximum temperature decreased (−0.070oC year−1) during the wheat growing season (October to March) at Bathinda but the minimum temperature and rainfall increased by 0.047°C year−1 and 0.160 mm year1, respectively. Maximum temperature indicates a decreasing trend during January, February and March at Bathinda. Increasing trend in minimum temperature during January and February and decreasing trend during March were observed. Increasing trend of rainfall was also observed during January, February and March. No clear cut relationships were observed between different meteorological parameters and grain yield. Comparison of the highest (2016–17) and lowest (2010–11) yield years indicates that lowest yield was observed when high rainfall was recorded and vice-versa.