The water shortage is expected to significantly impact farmers, particularly as the Rabi season approaches. Maharashtra has prioritised Rabi foodgrains and fodder for irrigation, leaving perennial crops dependent on surplus water availability. Gujarat's uneven dam storage highlights regional disparities in water access, while Karnataka's drought conditions threaten agricultural output and rural livelihoods. The broader implications of El Niño could lead to prolonged water stress, affecting food security and economic stability in these regions.