Global drought has become an increasingly pressing issue and has an impact on agricultural sustainability throughout the world. In the last two decades, this phenomenon has affected rainfall and temperature patterns, resulted in reduced agricultural yields, and triggered food instability. Limited water availability is a major challenge for farmers who rely on irrigation to maintain production balance. The impact of drought on plants can be seen in various aspects, from decreasing soil quality to increasing pests and diseases. Plants exposed to drought conditions often experience stress, which causes yields to decrease. Lack of water affects the photosynthesis process, slowing growth and reducing productivity. In addition, soil that is not well maintained due to drought becomes more susceptible to erosion, further deteriorating the quality of agricultural land. Drought also has an impact on the economic sustainability of farmers. With declining crop yields, farmers’ income is threatened. Small farmers who depend on their agricultural products for daily living experience hardship, often leading to increased debt and migration to cities. As more farmers move to urban environments, there will be a long-term impact on food security, due to a reduction in the population involved in food production. An efficient irrigation system is an important solution in dealing with drought. Modern technology such as drip irrigation and the use of soil sensors can help in managing water use more effectively. Furthermore, crop rotation and the application of sustainable farming techniques can help soil maintain its fertility and reduce dependence on water. Climate change also plays a crucial role in exacerbating the drought problem. Agriculture is one of the sectors most vulnerable to climate change. Therefore, adoption of environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural practices is essential to tackle this problem. Selection of plant varieties that are more resistant to drought is increasingly becoming a focus of research, in addition to agroecological practices that prioritize ecosystem management. Communities and governments around the world need to work together to develop policies that support research and investment in sustainable agricultural technologies. Educating farmers about more sustainable farming methods and awareness about water conservation can be an effective first step. Efforts to try to mitigate the impacts of drought must involve all stakeholders, including society, academia and the private sector. Thus, sustainable efforts in agriculture will not only reduce the impact of drought but also improve food security and farmer welfare in the future. A holistic approach combining technology, helpful policies and sustainable practices is the key to achieving agricultural sustainability amidst the threat of global drought.
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