Archive · 31 Jul 2026
Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Warns of Insufficient Rainfall
The agriculture minister of Andhra Pradesh, Tummala Nageswara Rao, said that the recent rains are not enough to keep crops healthy until harvest.
He told officials that all water in reservoirs should be saved for drinking, not for farming, until July 2027.
He warned that the Super El Niño will bring less rain to South India, so careful planning is needed.
Groundwater levels have dropped more than two meters, so farmers need to grow crops that need less water.
Officials were told to teach farmers about short‑duration, rain‑fed crops and to keep the area safe.
Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao cautioned farmers against celebrating recent rains, noting they are insufficient for harvest.
He emphasized that all reservoir water must be reserved for drinking purposes until July 2027.
The Super El Niño is expected to bring below‑normal rainfall to South India, requiring careful water planning.
Groundwater levels have dropped over two metres compared to last year, limiting irrigation options.
Officials were instructed to educate farmers on suitable short‑duration, rainfed crops and to monitor law and order.
- Who
- Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao
- What
- Warned farmers about insufficient rainfall and directed water management plans
- When
- Thursday
- Where
- Rajanna Siricilla district, Andhra Pradesh
- Why
- To prepare for the Super El Niño and ensure drinking water supply
- Minister
- Tummala Nageswara Rao
- District
- Rajanna Siricilla
- Issue
- Insufficient rainfall for harvest
- Water plan
- Reserve reservoir water for drinking until July 2027
- Groundwater drop
- More than 2 meters compared to last year