VOICED : Parched fields force Thailand to look beyond rice

Thailand's royal rain makers have been attempting to induce rainfall since the 1960s, but the effectiveness of this method is debated. The country is currently facing a severe drought, exacerbated by El Nino, affecting nearly a third of the nation. In response, the government is promoting alternative farming methods to help farmers adapt and maintain income. Thailand, a leading rice exporter, faces challenges as drought impacts agriculture, which is a significant part of its GDP.

What method has Thailand been using since the 1960s to try and induce rainfall?

• Importing water from neighboring countries

• Cloud seeding with chemicals

• Building large reservoirs

• Using solar panels to generate rain

What natural phenomenon has contributed to the severe drought in Thailand?

• Tropical cyclones

• La Nina

• El Nino

• Monsoon winds

What alternative crops are Thai farmers encouraged to grow to cope with drought?

• Fruits and flowers

• Corn and soybeans

• Cotton and tobacco

• Wheat and barley

Why is the Thai government encouraging farmers to diversify their crops?

• To increase the export of rice

• To help farmers earn income during dry periods

• To reduce the use of fertilizers

• To promote organic farming

How does crop diversification benefit farmers like Ladder One Comes Song?

• It increases the quality of rice

• It reduces the need for labor

• It provides a year-round income

• It allows them to export more crops