India Meteorological Department indicates possibility that Southwest Monsoon in 2026 may be below normal
Seasonal rainfall across country estimated at around 90% of Long Period Average
El Niño conditions may develop during the monsoon season
Current water levels in reservoirs are better than normal levels
Reservoir storage is at 127.01% of normal level for this period
Water storage situation will provide significant assistance in meeting irrigation requirements during Kharif season
Availability of seeds for both Kharif and Rabi seasons is more than sufficient as per requirement
Arrangements for a National Seed Reserve have been made for emergency situations
Government focusing on seeds, moisture conservation, water management and alternative crop planning
Special monitoring and swift action directed in states and districts likely to receive low rainfall
Contingency plans to be activated up to district level considering local conditions, water resources, crop patterns, seed availability, sowing progress, rainfall intervals, and district-specific risks
Emphasis on area-specific and crop-specific strategies including alternative crops, delayed sowing strategies, and drought-resistant varieties
Arrangements for short-duration and low-water requiring varieties to be kept ready for resowing
Clear strategy required for possible dry spells of two, three or four weeks including resowing, life-saving irrigation, and alternative sowing strategies
Advance identification needed for diseases and pests that may increase due to weather changes, moisture imbalance or rainfall intervals
Proper monitoring systems and treatment-related advice to be prepared in advance
Delivery of direct mobile messages, advisories, warnings and crop-related information to farmers to be strengthened
