India is preparing for the potential agricultural effects of El Nino, but government officials are optimistic that improved irrigation infrastructure and high reservoir levels will lessen any substantial harm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted below-normal monsoon rainfall, estimating it at about 92% of the long-period average. This prediction raises concerns given the risk of El Nino conditions developing, a climate pattern often associated with drier conditions in the Indian subcontinent.