Hyderabad: Telangana Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy urged Kharif farmers to switch to low-water crops and use water judiciously, warning that the El Niño effect could pose serious challenges during the current agricultural season.
Addressing farmers during official programmes in Suryapet district on Friday, the Minister said the government was closely monitoring rainfall and reservoir levels to take timely decisions. He advised cultivators to plan crops carefully and modify farming practices according to changing weather conditions.
Uttam Kumar Reddy said agriculture had become a major success story under the Congress government, with record paddy production and large-scale procurement. He added that bonus support for seven fine rice varieties was continuing, which would improve farmers’ incomes.
El Niño crop advisory highlights rainfall deficit
The Minister said El Niño had weakened the southwest monsoon, leading to nearly 40 per cent below-normal rainfall across India during June 2026, making it one of the driest Junes in recent years.
He said Telangana also received around 22 per cent less rainfall during June, delaying sowing operations in several parts of the state.
Uttam Kumar Reddy explained that a major portion of the Godavari river basin lies in Maharashtra. Consequently, poor rainfall there had delayed water inflows into Telangana, affecting water availability for irrigation.
El Niño crop advisory stresses water conservation
The Minister advised farmers in areas facing uncertain water availability to avoid crops with high water requirements. Instead, he recommended cultivating crops that require less water and can better withstand dry conditions.
He said reservoir water should be used cautiously, with drinking water receiving the highest priority, followed by irrigation needs. Moreover, careful planning would become essential if rainfall continued to remain below normal.
The Minister assured farmers that the government would continue supporting the agriculture sector while promoting efficient water use. He expressed confidence that proper planning and cooperation would help Telangana overcome the challenges posed by El Niño and sustain agricultural growth.
During the visit, Uttam Kumar Reddy also inspected the ongoing construction of an Integrated School at Gaddipalli and reviewed other development works.
N. Padmavati Reddy participated in the official programmes.