Odisha constitutes task force as El Niño threat looms over kharif season

With forecasts insinuating towards the possible emergence of El Niño conditions and the likelihood of below-normal monsoon rainfall in parts of the country, the Odisha government on Monday decided to constitute a dedicated task force to strengthen drought preparedness and ensure effective management of water resources during the 2026 Kharif season.

The decision was taken at a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan. The task force will regularly monitor water availability, irrigation planning, reservoir operations and water-use efficiency to mitigate any adverse impact of rainfall deficiency. The Water Resources Department will act as the nodal agency for the panel.

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The meeting reviewed the progress of the southwest monsoon, rainfall forecasts, reservoir levels and contingency plans for the agricultural season. Officials of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed the meeting that El Niño conditions could result in slightly below-normal rainfall across the country this year.

However, based on historical trends, Odisha is not expected to witness any major adverse impact, though preparedness measures are being put in place as a precaution.

Stressing the importance of advance planning, Garg directed all departments to maintain close watch on rainfall patterns, water storage levels and agricultural activities.

She also emphasised groundwater recharge, efficient utilisation of available water resources and preparedness to tackle possible pest and disease outbreaks arising from weather fluctuations.

Reviewing Kharif preparedness, the Agriculture Department informed that cultivation has been planned over 57.88 lakh hectares during the season, while irrigation facilities are targeted to cover 39.04 lakh hectares.

The state has planned to distribute 2.66 lakh quintals of seeds, of which more than 1.18 lakh quintals have already been supplied to farmers. Another 14,350 quintals have been kept in reserve to meet contingency requirements.

Officials said fertiliser availability remains satisfactory against the estimated requirement of 11.43 lakh metric tonnes for the season. The state has also set a target of bringing nearly 25 lakh farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

The Chief Secretary directed all departments and district administrations to strengthen coordination and ensure timely intervention to minimise the impact of any monsoon-related challenges during the current agricultural season.