El Niño Impact: Uttam Kumar Reddy Urges Telangana Farmers to Shift to Low-Water Crops, Use Water Wisely
Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy urged Kharif farmers to grow low-water crops due to El Niño. He said India recorded a 40% rainfall deficit and Telangana a 22% deficit in June 2026.
Hyderabad: Telangana Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has urged Kharif farmers to switch to low-water crops and use water carefully due to the possible impact of El Niño. Speaking during a series of official programmes in Suryapet district on Friday, the Minister cautioned that below-normal rainfall could affect agriculture and assured that the government is closely monitoring the situation.
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Uttam Kumar Reddy Warns Farmers About El Niño
Addressing farmers during his tour of Suryapet district, Uttam Kumar Reddy said agriculture in Telangana has become like a festive activity under the Congress government, with record paddy production and large-scale procurement.
He said bonus support for seven fine rice varieties is continuing.
“These steps will help farmers and help improve their conditions. But, farmers should be wary of the fact that El Niño has impacted rainfall in many parts of the country. Farmers should stay alert and adjust their farming methods based on weather changes,” the Minister said.
Telangana and India Recorded Rainfall Deficit
The Minister said the southwest monsoon has weakened due to El Niño.
According to him:
- India recorded about 40 per cent less rainfall in June 2026, making it one of the driest Junes in many years.
- Telangana recorded about 22 per cent less rainfall during June, delaying sowing in several areas.
Godavari Water Flow Delayed
Uttam Kumar Reddy explained that a large part of the Godavari River basin lies in Maharashtra, and poor rainfall there has delayed water inflows into Telangana.
Farmers Advised to Grow Low-Water Crops
The Minister advised farmers to avoid cultivating crops that require large quantities of water in areas where water availability is uncertain.
Instead, he recommended growing crops that:
- Require less water.
- Can withstand dry conditions.
He also stressed that reservoir water should be used carefully.
According to the Minister, drinking water should receive top priority, followed by irrigation requirements.
He said proper planning would be essential if rainfall continues to remain below normal.
Government Monitoring Rainfall and Water Levels
Uttam Kumar Reddy said the Telangana government is closely monitoring rainfall and reservoir water levels to enable timely decisions.
He assured farmers that the government would take necessary measures to reduce the impact of dry weather.
The Minister added that the government would continue supporting farmers while promoting efficient water use.
He expressed confidence that with proper planning and cooperation, Telangana would be able to manage the challenges posed by El Niño and continue agricultural growth.
Integrated School Construction Inspected
During his visit, Uttam Kumar Reddy also inspected the ongoing construction of the Integrated School at Gaddipalli and reviewed other development works.
N. Padmavati Reddy also participated in the programmes.
Telangana Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has advised Kharif farmers to shift to low-water crops and use reservoir water judiciously due to the possible impact of El Niño. Citing a 40 per cent rainfall deficit across India and a 22 per cent rainfall deficit in Telangana during June 2026, the Minister said the government is closely monitoring rainfall and water levels while assuring continued support to farmers.
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