Andhra Pradesh Faces 51% Monsoon Deficit, Kharif Sowing at 61% of Normal
Andhra Pradesh Faces 51% Monsoon Deficit, Kharif Sowing at 61% of Normal
IN · Published Aug 29, 2026
Andhra Pradesh is experiencing a significant 51% shortfall in monsoon rainfall during the ongoing Kharif season, which spans from June to October.
This deficit is attributed to El Niño conditions, which have weakened the Indian summer monsoon.

Impact & Risks

The monsoon deficit has placed immense pressure on Andhra Pradesh's agricultural sector, which supports 62% of the state's population. Tenant farmers, who lack formal land ownership, are particularly vulnerable as they are unable to access bank credit or crop insurance. Many are forced to rely on informal lenders, paying high interest rates of 2-3% per month. The financial strain is compounded by the increased cost of irrigation, with diesel consumption reaching 10-15 litres per hour. This situation poses risks not only to farmers' livelihoods but also to the state's food security and economic stability.

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