Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Agriculture Minister Advises Against Paddy Cultivation Due to El Nino
The Agriculture Minister of Telangana has advised farmers in Khammam district not to grow paddy this season because of a very strong El Nino weather pattern.
This pattern is expected to cause a severe drought, similar to or worse than the one in 1977.
The minister suggested growing pulses and oil palm instead, as they need less water.
He also talked about plans to manage water from the Godavari river to ensure there is enough drinking water.
The government is working on projects like the SitaRama Lift Irrigation to bring more water to the district.
Farmers might be worried about changing crops and having enough water for farming.
Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao advises against paddy cultivation due to severe El Nino impact.
Government suggests growing pulses and oil palm as alternative crops.
Plans to manage Godavari river water to ensure drinking water supply.
SitaRama Lift Irrigation Project aims to bring more water to Khammam district.
Farmers may have concerns about switching crops and water availability.
- Who
- Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao
- What
- Advisory against paddy cultivation due to El Nino
- When
- August and September 2026
- Where
- Khammam district, Telangana
- Why
- To avoid severe drought and ensure water supply for drinking and alternative crops
Government's Stance
Farmers' Concerns
Crop Cultivation
Government's Stance
The government advises farmers to avoid paddy cultivation and opt for pulses and oil palm due to the severe El Nino impact.
Farmers' Concerns
Farmers may be concerned about the economic impact of switching crops and the potential loss of income.
Water Management
Government's Stance
The government emphasizes limited use of reservoir water to ensure drinking water supply.
Farmers' Concerns
Farmers may worry about the availability of water for irrigation and the sustainability of alternative crops.
- Minister
- Tummala Nageswara Rao
- District
- Khammam
- River
- Godavari
- Project
- SitaRama Lift Irrigation Project
- Impact
- Severe El Nino effect expected in August and September
- Alternative Crops
- Pulses and oil palm
- Water Supply
- Action plan prepared for drinking water supply
- Infrastructure
- Rajiv Link Canal irrigates two lakh acres