Govt identifies 197 districts vulnerable to El Niño

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday said the government has identified 197 districts across the country as most vulnerable to the impact of El Nino, adding that the ministry has prepared state-wise contingency plans. The ministry is also running a nationwide awareness campaign — "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" — to reach out to farmers, he added. "The concern about El Nino is always on my mind 24x7. Not definitive, but 197 districts are identified as most vulnerable," Chouhan told reporters. El Nino, a climate phenomenon linked to poor monsoons and rainfall uncertainties, is a worry for this year.
The minister said the government has stockpiled essential agricultural inputs, including seeds, to ensure a quick response if weather conditions worsen. He added that a nationwide awareness campaign, "Khet Bachao Abhiyan", is also being conducted to inform and support farmers.The southwest monsoon reached Kerala on June 4 and is continuing its advance across the country. Current coverage is estimated at 20 to 30 per cent of India's geographical area, with full monsoon coverage expected by around July 15.
The government said it is maintaining close surveillance of weather patterns and agricultural conditions to minimise any impact on farmers and crop production.​