India prepares crop protection strategy as El Niño threatens monsoon rainfall

India is preparing a crop protection strategy amid concerns that the El Niño weather phenomenon could lead to below-normal monsoon rainfall, raising fears over foodgrain production in the country of 1.4 billion people.

The Ministry of Agriculture is focusing on water availability, seed supply and crop planning to minimise potential losses.

The India Meteorological Department has indicated that the southwest monsoon may be below normal this year, with seasonal rainfall projected at around 90% of the long-term average. El Niño conditions are also expected to develop during the monsoon season.

Despite these concerns, official data show reservoir water levels remain "quite satisfactory", with storage standing at 127.01% of the normal level for this time of year.

Officials believe the higher-than-normal water reserves will help meet irrigation demand during the Kharif season and reduce the risk of moisture shortages in agricultural fields.

The Agriculture Ministry assesses that even if rainfall falls below expectations, effective moisture conservation and scientific water management practices could help protect crops.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the government is prioritising area-specific and crop-specific strategies, including timely advice for farmers, seed distribution, alternative crop options, delayed sowing plans and the promotion of drought-resistant crop varieties.