Telangana has declared 365 mandals across 31 districts drought-affected for Vanakalam 2026. The State recorded a 17 per cent rainfall deficit, while paddy cultivation and crop area declined. The Assembly has sought central assistance, additional employment and a Rs. 20,000-crore relief package
The Telangana Cabinet decided in principle to seek Central assistance for El Niño-related losses, with a sub-committee to assess damage. It also approved power procurement and renewable projects, two DA instalments for employees and pensioners, and a digital media advertising policy.
Telangana’s southwest monsoon is ending on a deficit note, with the State recording 615.3 mm rainfall against a normal 726.7 mm between June 1 and September 27. Sixteen of 33 districts remained deficient, while no major rain spell was forecast.
A prolonged dry spell across northern Telangana has raised concerns among farmers growing paddy, cotton and other crops. Rainfall deficits in several districts have heightened fears of crop failure and losses as the monsoon enters its final phase
Telangana has slipped into the deficient rainfall category, recording a 23 per cent deficit between June 1 and September 9. The IMD has forecast thunderstorms and isolated heavy rainfall over the State, but below-normal rainfall is likely to continue until September 16.
Telangana has recorded 406.5 mm of cumulative rainfall since June 1 against the normal 430.3 mm, a 6 per cent deficit. Nineteen districts remain in the normal category, while two have received excess rainfall and 12 face deficits.
Telangana's Vanakalam sowing has slowed sharply, with cropped area declining by over 10 lakh acres compared with last year. Below-normal rainfall, lower reservoir storage, groundwater depletion, delayed Rythu Bharosa assistance and irrigation concerns have contributed to the sluggish agricultural season.
With El Niño intensifying, Telangana faces drought and rainfall deficits, making the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project vital to the State’s water security
Telangana has recorded a 23 per cent rainfall deficit between June 1 and June 12, according to TGDPS data. Several districts, including Jagtial, Hanumakonda and Vikarabad, reported significant shortfalls, raising concerns over the slow start to the monsoon season
Telangana is facing a rainfall deficit in 10 districts, with paddy sowing at just 8.02% of the normal area. Though maize and cotton show better progress, the Kharif season remains uncertain with limited rainfall forecast in the coming weeks
