Karnataka faces severe drought risk amid El Niño concerns

Karnataka is facing a severe drought crisis that threatens the state's rural economy, agriculture, and water security. As of September 2026, 30 of the state's 31 districts have been categorized as rainfall-deficient. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) warns that if El Niño conditions persist, the state could face even more severe drought conditions in 2027.

The drought has already led to significant crop losses, fodder shortages, and impacts on livestock and dairy farming. In response, some farmers are shifting toward drought-resilient crops like ragi and millets. The administration has declared 124 taluks as drought-hit, a number expected to rise toward 200.

A special three-day session of the State Legislature is scheduled to begin on September 21 to discuss the drought situation. However, concerns remain regarding whether the session will result in tangible relief for distressed farmers or become a platform for political disputes between the ruling and opposition parties.