Govt Steps Up Kharif Preparedness Amid El Niño Concerns

New Delhi, April 20: Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed senior officials to ensure advance preparedness for the आगामी Kharif season, emphasising proactive measures to safeguard farmers’ interests amid evolving weather risks.

During a high-level review meeting, the government assessed key parameters including monsoon forecasts, water availability, crop conditions, and the readiness of seeds and other agricultural inputs. The review also covered state-level preparedness and contingency planning to address potential adverse climatic conditions.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the Southwest Monsoon 2026 is likely to be below normal, with rainfall estimated at around 92% of the long period average. The احتمال of El Niño conditions developing during the monsoon season was also flagged, with a final assessment expected by late May.

Chouhan emphasised that farmer welfare remains a top priority and assured that coordinated efforts between the Centre and states are underway. These include improved water management, expansion of irrigation infrastructure, adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, and promotion of climate-resilient farming practices.

Reservoir storage levels currently remain strong, at approximately 127% of the normal level for this period, providing a critical buffer to meet irrigation requirements during the Kharif season and mitigating risks associated with rainfall deficiency.

The review concluded that while El Niño may pose challenges, its overall impact on agriculture is expected to be relatively limited compared to past instances, supported by better water availability, micro-irrigation expansion, crop diversification, and timely policy interventions.