DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjahss.2025.v13i11.007

Pages: 494-506

This study uses secondary data from 1997 to 2023 to examine how climate variability affected cropping patterns and agricultural output in Rajasthan post-globalization. Seasonal asymmetry, instability, diversity, and production trends in Kharif and Rabi crops are examined. We examined long-term changes using growth rates, instability indices, and diversification. The data demonstrate that seasons vary greatly. Kharif agriculture is still vulnerable to rainfall, with production ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 t/ha and crop instability surpassing 20% CV. Bajra is vital to food security, however its area decreased (-0.72% CAGR) while its yield increased (2.8% CAGR). However, soybeans and maize were the Kharif crops that increased fastest (3.2% area CAGR; 4.95% production CAGR; 2.57% CAGR, respectively). Rabi crops performed better: wheat yields increased from 1.6 to 2.5 t/ha, productivity increased 1.54% CAGR, and instability was 6.2% CV. Although mustard expanded (1.12% CAGR area, 1.32% yield CAGR), warmer winters made it more volatile (9.7% CV). The Simpson Index, which evaluates crop diversity, rose from 0.52 in 1997–2000 to 0.64 in 2011–2023. Bajra's share dropped from over 50% to 35% as soya bean and mustard gained popularity. Rajasthan is vulnerable in two ways: rain makes Kharif unstable, while groundwater depletion and high heat make Rabi fragile. Climate-resilient types, efficient water management, diversification incentives, and risk prevention should be prioritized to ensure food security in the long run.