June Rainfall Deficit Barely Affects Agriculture as Sowing Gains Momentum in Andhra’s NTR District

Speedy Summary

• NTR District in Andhra Pradesh recorded a 16.4% deficit in rainfall between June 1 and July 7 despite the Southwest Monsoon arriving early on May 26.
• Out of Andhra Pradesh’s 26 districts, only one (Eluru) recorded excess rainfall, while 11 experienced normal rainfall and 14 faced deficits.
• NTR District received pre-monsoon showers in May that were the highest in four-five years, aiding early sowing operations despite deficient monsoon rains later.
• Agricultural activities intensified in July with sowing completed across 24,405 hectares out of the district’s total cultivable area of around 94,931 hectares. Cotton dominates with cultivation spread over 19,099 hectares, followed by paddy (2,001 ha), pulses (1,645 ha), maize (1,635 ha), and sugarcane (18 ha).
• Farmers’ reliance on lakes has helped mitigate impacts from minimal June rainfall; however, those depending on borewells are facing challenges due to uncertain water availability. Further delays in rain could worsen their situation.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The higher-than-usual pre-monsoon showers this year appear to have provided a temporary cushion for agricultural activities in NTR District amid ongoing monsoonal uncertainty. Early sowing has exceeded expectations compared to last year during the same period-a testament to farmers’ adaptability when timely rain provides opportunities.

However, dependence on borewells and limited irrigation infrastructure remains a concern for mandals without access to major lakes. This emphasizes the need for improved rural water management systems as unpredictable weather patterns seem increasingly common due to climate change impacts.

For policymakers at both district and state levels tackling agricultural resilience under varying climatic conditions will continue proving critical if productivity goals must align sustainably while ensuring smallholder farmer stability amidst adversity.

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