Telangana faces a 17% rainfall deficit, with 17 of 33 districts reporting deficient rainfall, raising concerns for kharif sowing in rain-fed areas. Siddipet and Hanumakonda are worst-hit, while the Centre flags India's districts vulnerable to agricultural disruptions.
India's monsoon season faces a significant 42% rainfall deficit, compounded by El Nino. The government has identified 315 vulnerable districts and is implementing district-specific contingency plans focusing on water conservation and crop diversification to mitigate impacts on farm output and food security.
A study by ICAR scientists reveals El Niño years have historically reduced India's key kharif crop yields, like paddy and maize, by over 10% in many districts. Researchers urge contingency planning for drought-tolerant varieties and water management.
