El Niño Threatens Indian Agriculture, Calls for Regenerative Practices
El Niño Threatens Indian Agriculture, Calls for Regenerative Practices
IN · Published Jul 18, 2026
India is bracing for the impacts of an anticipated major El Niño event, expected to intensify by the end of August 2026 (The Hindu Business Line, 2026-07-18).
El Niño, caused by the warming of surface waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, is known to weaken the Indian monsoon, leading to below-normal rainfall, prolonged dry spells, and higher temperatures.

Impact & Risks

The anticipated El Niño event could severely impact Indian farmers, particularly smallholders who rely on consistent monsoon rains for their crops. Below-average rainfall and higher temperatures may lead to water scarcity, crop failures, and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases. The degradation of soil and loss of biodiversity over decades have further weakened the agricultural sector's ability to withstand climatic shocks. Without immediate action to adopt regenerative practices, the livelihoods of millions of farmers and the nation's food security could be at risk.

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