Govt identifies 197 districts vulnerable to El Niño, prepares state-wise plans
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The Centre has identified 197 districts across the country as the most vulnerable to the impact of El Niño and has prepared state-wise contingency plans to deal with any adverse effects on agriculture, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters, Chouhan said the ministry is closely monitoring the situation and holding weekly meetings to assess developments related to the climate phenomenon.
"The concern about El Niño is always on my mind 24x7. Not definitive, but 197 districts are identified as most vulnerable," he said.
The minister said the government has stockpiled essential agricultural inputs, including seeds, to ensure a quick response if weather conditions worsen. He added that a nationwide awareness campaign, "Khet Bachao Abhiyan", is also being conducted to inform and support farmers.
"We have prepared a contingency plan for each state. We will leave no stone unturned to tackle this," Chouhan said.
El Niño is a climate pattern often associated with weaker monsoons and greater uncertainty in rainfall. Concerns over its possible impact have grown after the India Meteorological Department forecast the southwest monsoon at around 90 per cent of the long-period average, indicating a below-normal season.
Officials have warned that risks to crops could increase if El Niño conditions strengthen during the second half of the monsoon season.
The southwest monsoon reached Kerala on June 4 and is continuing its advance across the country. Current coverage is estimated at 20 to 30 per cent of India's geographical area, with full monsoon coverage expected by around July 15.
The government said it is maintaining close surveillance of weather patterns and agricultural conditions to minimise any impact on farmers and crop production.
