India is currently experiencing a 40% rainfall deficit, but the country has prepared district-level contingency plans to mitigate potential impacts on agriculture, according to PK Singh, Agriculture Commissioner of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Speaking on the sidelines of the India Innovative Crop Nutrition Conclave 2026, organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Singh emphasized that improved irrigation capacity and substantial food grain reserves provide a buffer against any adverse effects on crop production.
District-Level Contingency Plans Ready
Singh stated that contingency plans have been formulated at the district level based on information from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). “These contingency plans will be implemented wherever and whenever rainfall conditions necessitate them,” he said. The plans are designed to address potential rainfall uncertainty and ensure that farmers can adapt to changing weather patterns.
Improved Irrigation Since 2015 El Niño
Drawing comparisons to the 2015 El Niño event, Singh highlighted that India’s irrigation infrastructure has expanded significantly since then. “Conditions are similar to the El Niño of 2015, but our irrigation infrastructure has expanded significantly since then,” he noted. This expansion provides a critical buffer, allowing farmers to access water even during periods of low rainfall.
Ample Food Grain Reserves
Singh stressed that India holds ample stocks of rice and wheat, which can be used to meet any supply challenges. “Stocks of rice and wheat are very healthy,” he said, adding that any shortages that arise will be addressed, including through imports if necessary. This robust inventory ensures that the country can maintain food security despite the rainfall deficit.
Farmers Shifting to Pulse Crops
Singh also observed that delayed monsoons or drought-like conditions often lead farmers to shift toward pulses and other short-duration crops that require less water. “A positive aspect is that if the monsoon is delayed or drought conditions emerge, farmers often shift to pulse crops,” he said. “Since these are short-duration crops requiring less water, they offer a viable alternative during periods of water scarcity.”
Monitoring the Monsoon
The Agriculture Commissioner noted that the situation will be closely monitored as the monsoon progresses. “Right now, the situation is such that there is a 40% rainfall deficit,” he said, but reiterated that the contingency plans and reserves provide a strong safety net for the agricultural sector.
