Indian farmers face drought as millions risk fallow fields

In India's Telangana region, officials warn that up to 32 lakh acres could stay fallow this Kharif season because El Niño‑related rainfall deficits threaten normal sowing. Estimates suggest roughly 7‑10 lakh farmers may forgo planting unless they switch to irrigated dry or fodder crops, prompting the government to push seed supplies and encourage alternative income sources.

In Tamil Nadu's eastern Salem district, a prolonged dry spell has left maize, turmeric, sugarcane, banana and other crops withering as groundwater levels plunge. Farmers have appealed for state drought‑relief measures and loan waivers, citing extensive damage to both rain‑fed and irrigated agriculture. Both regions rely on monsoon rains, and authorities are monitoring forecasts from the India Meteorological Department for any improvement.