Chouhan Assures Preparedness Amid El Niño
New Delhi, June 3: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said there is no need for panic over El Niño concerns, stressing that timely preparation and coordinated planning are key to protecting farmers’ interests during the upcoming monsoon season.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on the Southwest Monsoon, water availability, seed arrangements and crop planning, Chouhan said farmers remain the government’s top priority. He directed officials to strengthen monitoring systems and ensure swift action in regions expected to receive below-normal rainfall, while implementing effective contingency plans.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast that the 2026 Southwest Monsoon may be below normal at around 90 percent of the Long Period Average, with possible El Niño conditions. However, the minister reassured that the government is fully prepared under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He noted that reservoir water levels are currently above normal at 127.01 percent of average storage, which will help support Kharif sowing and irrigation needs. Key focus areas include seed distribution, moisture conservation, water management and alternative crop planning.
Chouhan also emphasized district-level contingency plans based on local rainfall patterns, use of short-duration and drought-resistant crops, certified seed availability, mobile advisories, pest alerts and stronger inter-departmental coordination to ensure smooth agricultural operations.
