India Prepares Contingency Plans for El Nino Impact on Kharif Season
Govt ready with plans to tackle El Nino threat to kharif season: Chouhan
Business Standard
Image: Business Standard
The Indian government is developing district-wise contingency plans to mitigate the potential adverse effects of El Nino on the 2026 kharif season. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the need for preparation, while also announcing a nationwide initiative to promote balanced fertilizer use. Despite challenges, India aims for a record foodgrain production of 376.56 million tonnes.
- 01The India Meteorological Department forecasts a below-normal southwest monsoon for 2026, predicting rainfall at 92% of the long-period average.
- 02El Nino conditions are expected to emerge between May and June 2026, potentially leading to drier and hotter weather in India.
- 03The government will launch the 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' to promote balanced fertilizer use amid the West Asia crisis.
- 04India is projected to achieve a record foodgrain production of 376.56 million tonnes for the 2025-26 crop year.
- 05Over 100 districts are reportedly using fertilizers beyond recommended levels, necessitating a multi-faceted approach to crop management.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that the Indian government is preparing district-specific contingency plans to address the potential impacts of El Nino on the 2026 kharif season. While the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a below-normal southwest monsoon, with rainfall expected to be around 92% of the long-term average, Chouhan reassured that preparations are underway rather than panic. The government is identifying districts for alternative crops and ensuring seed availability. El Nino, characterized by the warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, could lead to drier and hotter conditions in India. Farmers have begun early sowing in regions that have received pre-monsoon rains. Additionally, the government plans to launch a 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' to promote balanced fertilizer use. Despite potential weather challenges, India is on track for a record foodgrain output of 376.56 million tonnes for the 2025-26 crop year, marking an increase of 18.8 million tonnes from the previous year.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Farmers across India may need to adapt their planting strategies and crop choices due to the anticipated effects of El Nino on the monsoon season.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How concerned are you about the impact of El Nino on the upcoming kharif season?
Connecting to poll...
More about India Meteorological Department
Severe Weather Alerts Issued for Delhi-NCR as Thunderstorms Approach
Hindustan Times • May 28, 2026
Delhi Faces Severe Weather: IMD Issues Orange Alert for Thunderstorms and Hailstorms
The Economic Times • May 28, 2026
&w=1200&q=75)
Severe Weather Alert for Noida: IMD Predicts High Winds and Thunderstorms
Zee News • May 28, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.