Kharif output dips by over 10% across states in El Niño years: Study

El Niño’s shadow looms over India’s monsoon. Past El Niño years saw key kharif crops like paddy and maize suffer over 10% output reduction in numerous districts. This study highlights vulnerable areas and stresses the need for district-level climate-resilient planning. Policymakers are urged to strengthen contingency plans for drought-tolerant varieties and efficient water management to protect farmers.