News Capsule: El Niño May Impact India's Monsoon and Kharif Crops: FAO
16-Jun-2026 09:40 AM
News Capsule: El Niño May Impact India's Monsoon and Kharif Crops: FAO
★ The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that the newly developed El Niño could weaken India's southwest monsoon, affecting rainfall during the crucial kharif season.
★ Rainfed crops, especially rice and maize, are at the highest risk, with lower rainfall potentially reducing production.
★ According to FAO, the impact of El Niño extends beyond agriculture, affecting farmers' incomes, food security, and global agricultural markets.
★ During the 2015–16 El Niño event, India's maize production fell by 4% and rice output declined by 1%, while Southeast Asia suffered significant rice production losses.
★ FAO noted that higher global temperatures, ongoing conflicts, and widespread food insecurity could make this El Niño more severe than previous episodes.
★ The agency warned that the risk of agricultural drought could increase across several countries in South and Southeast Asia.
★ FAO emphasized the need for early preparedness, stronger weather-warning systems, and timely support for farmers to minimize potential losses.
★ It also highlighted that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could raise energy and fertilizer costs, adding to farmers' production expenses.