Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Mercury levels in the city and other parts of the region continue to hover above the normal range, causing the winter chill to disappear. While the farming community rues lack of conducive weather conditions for crops, health experts too have warned of further rise in infections. At 17.8 degrees Celsius, the minimum temperature in the city on Sunday was above the normal range by two units, according to the official data. Farmers leader Jayaji Suryawanshi said absence of winter chill has affected wheat among other crops.Wheat farming requires winter chill and current weather conditions are hampering the crop. Pigeon pea crops nearing the harvest phase have become vulnerable to different infestations. The region also has a grape cultivation belt. Grape growers are having sleepless nights due to the erratic weather conditions, he said.The flowering phase of mangoes is also expected to take a hit due to the lack of proper winter conditions and this may impact the yield from Marathwada — known for the cultivation of the kesar variety. Dr Sanjay Patne, president of the local physicians association, said the existing anomalies in weather conditions increase the risk of different viral infections.While there already are several cases of viral infections, children, veterans and citizens with comorbidities are more vulnerable to seasonal diseases now, he said.The association has advised nutritious diet, intake of fruits and regular exercise to keep viral infections at bay.As per India Meteorological Data (IMD), there could be gradual decline in the minimum temperature over the next one week in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The minimum temperature could reach 15 degrees Celsius by November 25, a statement from the Met department said.We also published the following articles recentlyTemperatures likely to be in normal range for weekThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Panaji has forecasted dry weather with morning haze in isolated places for the next few days. The day and night temperatures have been within the normal range. The minimum temperature on Sunday was 25 degrees Celsius, which is 2.4 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature recorded on Sunday was 34 degrees Celsius, 0.7 degrees above normal. The weather has been dry since the last phase of post-monsoon activity, with a surplus of 18.4mm rainfall recorded so far.Crop infestation to maternal risks: How tech helpsWadhwani AI has developed a smartphone and AI-based early warning system for pest infestations in cotton crops. The system, called CottonAce, uses an Android application and AI algorithm to analyze images from pest traps, identifying and counting pests and providing actionable advice to farmers. This technology has helped reduce pesticide usage, save crops, and increase profits. Google.org is using its AI expertise to aid social causes, such as helping non-profits deal with complex data sets and offering personalized solutions in local languages. Google employees have also contributed pro bono work to develop tech solutions for non-profits.Sugar prices are rising worldwide after bad weather tied to El Nino damaged crops in AsiaRising sugar prices are having a devastating impact on bakers in Nigeria, forcing many to close down or cut production. Sugar is a key ingredient in bread, which is a staple food for the countrys population. The surge in prices is mainly due to lower global supplies caused by dry weather in India and Thailand. Developing nations, already dealing with food shortages and inflation, are particularly affected. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization predicts a 2% decline in global sugar production, exacerbating the problem. Import-dependent countries like Nigeria are especially vulnerable.

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