India Urges Farmers to Shift Crops Amid Weak Monsoon Forecast

India is advising farmers in regions reliant on rainfall and with limited irrigation to cultivate crops that require less water, such as pulses, oilseeds, and millets. This recommendation comes as the country prepares for the 2026 monsoon planting season amid concerns of potentially weak rainfall that could impact agricultural production.

The Ministry of Agriculture's initiative is part of a larger strategy to mitigate risks associated with the monsoon. Rainfall across the country since the start of June has been 42% below the normal average. In response, New Delhi is intensifying coordination with state governments to protect farm output and the incomes of rural populations. The ministry identified 315 districts as vulnerable to below-normal rainfall, with 111 of these high-priority areas having minimal irrigation facilities.

District-level contingency plans are being developed to guide farmers on crop selection, water management strategies, and emergency responses should rainfall deficits persist. The government is also prioritizing water conservation efforts, including the repair of ponds, reservoirs, and farm storage structures, while closely monitoring water levels in major river basins. States have been tasked with preparing contingency plans for both drinking water and irrigation supplies.

To further support the agricultural sector, New Delhi is enhancing access to crop insurance, farm credit, and income support programs. Despite concerns about the monsoon, the ministry assured that current stockpiles of rice and wheat are ample, alleviating immediate threats to national food security.