El Niño Intensifies Drought Conditions Across India
El Niño Intensifies Drought Conditions Across India
IN · Published Oct 17, 2026
• India is experiencing significant drought conditions, with 40% of the country affected due to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.
• The nation is transitioning into winter following a monsoon season that recorded a rainfall deficit of 12.6%.

Impact & Risks

The drought conditions are affecting nearly half of India's geographical area, posing severe risks to agriculture, water resources, and food security. Farmers, who rely heavily on monsoon rains for irrigation, are facing reduced crop yields, which could lead to economic hardships and food shortages. Additionally, the ongoing Iran war has disrupted the supply chain for essential agricultural inputs like fuel and fertilisers, further straining the farming sector. The combination of these factors could lead to increased rural distress and higher food prices, impacting millions of households across the country.

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