Rayalaseema Farmers Press Ahead with Kharif Sowing Despite El Nino Threat

Agricultural activity has gained pace across Chittoor, Annamayya, and Sri Sathya Sai districts with the onset of Kharif 2026, even as an uneven southwest monsoon and growing concerns over a possible El Nino-linked rain deficit loom over the region.

Revenue officials, citing the India Meteorological Department (IMD), reported contrasting climatic conditions across the three districts as of June 23. Sri Sathya Sai district recorded 62.7 mm of rainfall since June 1, against a normal of 41 mm, a surplus of 53%. Annamayya district received 34.2 mm against 42.1 mm, a deficit of 19%, while Chittoor recorded 31.1 mm against 59 mm, 47% below normal.

However, the third week of June brought more encouraging figures for interior districts. Sri Sathya Sai received 30.4 mm, 125% above normal, and Annamayya recorded 28.5 mm, 56% above normal. In contrast, the tail-end Chittoor district received only 16.2 mm, 29% below its weekly normal.

Agriculture department officials observed that the scattered showers facilitated initial land preparation, but sustained rainfall is critical for sowing decisions in predominantly rain-fed lands.

Farmers in Sri Sathya Sai have begun ploughing and seed treatment for groundnut, red gram, millets, and fodder crops. In Annamayya, fields are being prepared for groundnut, red gram, maize, and vegetables. Chittoor farmers are cautiously planning rain-fed groundnut, pulses, and fodder cultivation alongside regular horticulture crops.

“Despite the much-feared El Nino effect, which is yet to be officially declared, we have proceeded with sowing as the first showers softened the soil. However, we fear wasting seed due to adverse climatic conditions,” said Markandeyulu, a groundnut farmer from Palamaner in Chittoor district.

In Sri Sathya Sai district, which typically records a seasonal rainfall deficit, farmers are monitoring forecasts closely and seeking advice from the Agriculture and Horticulture departments. “We are ready to switch to short-duration crops if rains are delayed, but water for longer periods and feed for livestock are bigger concerns,” said a farmer in Gorantla.

A senior Agriculture department official in Puttaparthi acknowledged that forecasts predicted a potentially weak monsoon under developing El Nino conditions. “National reports suggest a possibility of below-normal monsoon rainfall. This could prompt the state government to update district contingency plans and advise farmers on crop choices, irrigation scheduling, and moisture conservation,” he said.

In Chittoor district, officials have intensified seed availability, promoted drought-tolerant and short-duration varieties, encouraged farm-pond recharge, and advised staggered sowing rather than immediate large-scale planting.