The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) conducted a high-level review on July 7, 2026, to assess India's preparedness for the potential impacts of El Nino across key sectors, including agriculture, water resources, and power. The meeting, chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, aimed to evaluate existing measures and identify gaps in readiness for the climate phenomenon that can disrupt weather patterns globally.
Focus on Agriculture and Water Management
The review emphasized the agriculture sector, which is most vulnerable to El Nino-induced droughts and uneven rainfall. Officials presented data on reservoir levels, groundwater availability, and crop sowing patterns. The PMO directed states to ensure timely distribution of seeds and fertilizers, and to strengthen contingency plans for rain-fed areas. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, over 60% of India's farmland is rain-dependent, making it critical to monitor monsoon forecasts and prepare for potential shortfalls.
Power Sector and Energy Demand
In the power sector, the review highlighted the need to manage increased energy demand during heatwaves, which El Nino can exacerbate. The PMO instructed the Ministry of Power to ensure adequate coal stocks and ramping up of renewable energy sources. Officials noted that peak power demand could rise by 10-15% during prolonged dry spells, stressing the grid's capacity. The review also discussed the integration of early warning systems for extreme weather events to minimize disruptions.
Inter-Ministerial Coordination and State Readiness
The meeting saw participation from secretaries of key ministries, including Agriculture, Water Resources, Power, and Earth Sciences. The PMO stressed the importance of inter-ministerial coordination to ensure a unified response. State governments have been advised to activate disaster management cells and conduct mock drills for drought and heatwave scenarios. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) presented its latest El Nino forecast, indicating a 70% probability of a moderate El Nino event during the monsoon season, which could lead to below-normal rainfall in central and northern regions.
Impact on Food Security and Economy
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, a severe El Nino could reduce kharif crop yields by up to 20%, affecting food prices and inflation. The PMO directed the Department of Food and Public Distribution to maintain buffer stocks and monitor market prices closely. The review also considered the economic impact, with potential losses estimated at over ₹50,000 crore if proactive measures are not implemented. The government aims to ensure that all vulnerable districts have access to drought-resistant seeds and alternative irrigation sources.
Next Steps and Monitoring
The PMO has set up a task force to monitor El Nino developments on a weekly basis and report directly to the Prime Minister. The task force will coordinate with state governments and central agencies to deploy resources as needed. The Principal Secretary emphasized that preparedness is key to mitigating the adverse effects of El Nino and protecting the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The review concluded with a directive to expedite the implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change at the district level.
