Dryland agriculture is the practice of cultivating crops without irrigation in areas receiving limited rainfall, critical for India's rural population, supporting 40% of human habitation and occupying 60% of cultivated land. Challenges include moisture stress, uncertain rainfall, and socio-economic constraints for farmers, while opportunities exist for agroforestry development and improved crop production techniques. Several historical initiatives and modern schemes aim to enhance dryland agricultural practices, improve water management, and promote resilient crop varieties.