Rainfed agricultureRainfed agriculture, whichSustainability relies exclusively on natural precipitation to meet the water needs of crops, forms the backbone of many marginal and smallholder farms globally. This type of farming is crucial, providing for approximately 35% of the world’s food and nutritional requirements (United Nations Environment Programme, in Global environment outlook 4: Environment for development. UNEP, (2007)). As rainfed agricultureRainfed agriculture is generally more environmentally sustainable and less resource-intensive than irrigated farming, it is increasingly recognized as a viable approach for sustainable agricultureSustainable agriculture. Despite advancements in productivity and environmental management in some developing regions, numerous impoverished communities in Africa and Asia continue to face significant challenges, including povertyPoverty, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Improving the livelihoodsLivelihoods of farmers in these arid and semi-arid regionsSemi-arid regions will require better management of rainwater and soil moistureSoil moisture, the use of supplemental and small-scale irrigation, and increased access to organic and inorganic fertilizers. Enhanced access to markets and strengthened land and water rights are also crucial. A paradigm shift in rainfed agricultureRainfed agriculture can be anticipated through technological innovations, policy reforms, and improvements in seedSeeds quality.