El Nino may hit Kharif crops, Telangana farmers cautioned by Irrigation Minister

Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy cautioned farmers in Telangana about possible challenges to agriculture this Kharif season due to the El Nino effect. He noted that the southwest monsoon has weakened, with the state recording 22 per cent less rainfall in June, delaying sowing in several areas.

Nalgonda: Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy sounded a caution to farmers about possible challenges due to El Nino effect this Kharif season. He urged them to plan crops carefully and use water wisely during the season.

Speaking to farmers at a series of official programmes during his tour of Suryapet here on Friday, the Minister said farmers should be wary of the fact that El Nino had impacted rainfall in many parts of the country.

---

He said the southwest monsoon has been weakened due to El Nino. Telangana also recorded about 22 per cent less rainfall in June which delayed sowing in several areas. A large part of the Godavari river basin lies in Maharashtra and poor rainfall there has delayed water flow into Telangana, he explained.

Uttam Kumar Reddy advised farmers to avoid crops that require a lot of water in areas where supply was uncertain. He suggested growing crops that need less water and can withstand dry conditions.

He also said water from reservoirs should be used carefully and stressed that drinking water should be given top priority, followed by irrigation needs.

The Minister expressed confidence that with proper planning and cooperation, Telangana can manage the challenges of El Nino and continue agricultural growth.