Despite drought conditions and below-normal rainfall across Telangana, Sangareddy farmers have completed sowing in over 81 per cent of the cultivated area. Officials attribute the better performance to crop diversification and normal rainfall during June, though paddy cultivation remains affected.
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.
Uncertainty over rainfall due to the expected El Nino effect is leaving farmers in Karimnagar district undecided about paddy cultivation this Vanakalam season. Agriculture officials are encouraging a shift to irrigated dry crops to minimise risks and potential losses.
BRS working president KT Rama Rao warned of a statewide agitation if the Telangana government fails to start paddy procurement immediately. He accused the government of delaying purchases and neglecting farmers despite promises of support and bonuses.
Climate scientist Dr M N Rajeevan has warned of a possible strong El Nino event in 2026 that could affect India’s monsoon. However, a positive Indian Ocean Dipole may partly offset its impact and help maintain near-normal rainfall.
Governments can adopt the Brazilian model which supports the ideas of ecological fiscal transfer, payments for environmental services, tourism and forest concessions
