Scanty Rainfall Raises Concerns for Cotton and Paddy Farmers in Telangana’s Nalgonda
By anand lodhi 2026-09-14 15:24:55
Scanty rainfall raises concerns for cotton and paddy farmers in Telangana's Nalgonda.
Nalgonda, Telangana: Farmers in the district are increasingly concerned due to a prolonged lack of adequate rainfall and rising temperatures. The rainfall deficit and mounting pressure on water availability are impacting Kharif crops such as cotton and paddy.
Given the weather conditions and the potential impact of El Niño, farmers had been advised to select crops based on water availability. Officials had emphasized promoting the cultivation of low-water-consuming crops—such as red gram (arhar), black gram (urad), and green gram (moong)—instead of water-intensive crops like paddy and cotton.
Farmers have also been urged to limit the area under paddy cultivation due to water scarcity. According to a report dated August 8, 2026, farmers in the district had already begun cultivating alternative crops instead of paddy across approximately 33,000 acres. A target had been set to expand this area to 1.5 lakh acres.
The situation remains challenging for cotton farmers in rain-fed areas as well. A prolonged dry spell can deplete soil moisture, potentially hindering cotton growth and yield. The situation could prove particularly difficult for farmers lacking adequate irrigation facilities.
Adequate water is also essential for paddy cultivation. If water levels in reservoirs and other irrigation sources remain low, farmers may have to rely on supplementary irrigation to save their crops, which could drive up cultivation costs.
Under current circumstances, upcoming rainfall is crucial for farmers in Nalgonda. If rainfall does not improve, the productivity of Kharif crops—including cotton and paddy—is likely to face significant pressure.
