Agriculture Minister Advises State Readiness Amid Forecasts of Low Monsoon

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has urged state governments to prepare for potentially low rainfall and other weather challenges, given the threat of El Niño and predictions of a weaker monsoon. States are advised to implement district-level plans and ensure the availability of seeds and fertilisers.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Union Agriculture Minister, has called on states to brace themselves for potential challenges due to possible low rainfall this year. Concerns arise from the El Niño phenomenon and the India Meteorological Department's forecast of a below-normal monsoon. Chouhan reiterated the ministry's preparedness in addressing such adversities.

During the National Agriculture Conference - Kharif Campaign 2026, Chouhan highlighted that the agriculture ministry has established contingency plans while ensuring adequate seed and fertiliser stocks. He emphasized the importance of state-level preparations at the district level. The conference also addressed issues like fake seeds, agricultural inputs, and promoted balanced fertiliser use through the upcoming 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' campaign.

States were urged to utilize Soil Health Cards effectively, enhance the punctual delivery of agricultural credit, and devise their agricultural strategies tailored to local conditions. The minister also stressed the importance of transparency in fertiliser distribution and announced impending talks with banks to improve credit access.