Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Monday reviewed its preparedness for the Kharif crop season 2026 and the possible impact of El Niño, with Chief Secretary Anu Garg directing all departments to undertake advance planning and coordinated action to ensure uninterrupted agricultural activities and water availability across the state.
A high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan discussed the status of southwest monsoon rainfall, forecasts for the season and contingency measures to address any adverse impact arising from El Niño conditions.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Shubha Sharma, Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Yadav, Cooperation Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary and Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, IMD Regional Director Dr. Manorama Mohanty, the Vice-Chancellor of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology and senior officials from various departments.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon has already reached parts of coastal Odisha and weather conditions remain favourable for rainfall in other regions. While there is a possibility of slightly below-normal rainfall across the country due to El Niño this year, historical analysis indicates that Odisha is unlikely to witness any significant impact.
Officials informed the meeting that rainfall in the state could remain normal, slightly below normal or even above normal despite El Niño conditions. However, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for complete preparedness in view of any possibility of deficient rainfall.
She directed departments to continuously monitor rainfall patterns, reservoir water levels, agricultural activities and water resources while ensuring advance contingency planning.
About the Author
