TG begins scientific action plan

metro india news  I hyderabad

The first meeting of the 27 member multidisciplinary Expert Committee constituted by the Telangana Government to assess the impact of El Niño and prepare a State Level Contingency Action Plan for agriculture and allied sectors was held at Praja Bhavan on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Telangana State Planning Board Vice Chairman Dr G Chinna Reddy.

The committee brings together experts from the India Meteorological Department, ICRISAT, ICAR CRIDA, NABARD, agricultural and veterinary universities, Indian Institute of Millets Research, Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, MARKFED, Oilfed, National Seeds Corporation, Telangana State Seed Development Corporation and several government departments.

Addressing the meeting, Dr G Chinna Reddy said Telangana is experiencing an unusual monsoon, with nearly 30 percent rainfall deficit since June 1. While 7 districts recorded normal rainfall, 26 districts remain deficient. He said El Niño is weakening the southwest monsoon and stressed that the committee has compiled district and mandal level weather, rainfall and crop data to prepare evidence based recommendations. Emphasising environmental responsibility, he said, "Scientific planning, coordinated governance and public participation will help Telangana overcome climate challenges."

The committee reviewed global and regional climate indicators including ENSO, Oceanic Niño Index, Indian Ocean Dipole, rainfall trends and IMD forecasts. Discussions focused on climate resilient agriculture, crop diversification, promotion of drought tolerant crops including millets, efficient water use, groundwater recharge, rainwater harvesting and strengthening irrigation and extension services. Irrigation Secretary E Sridhar said, "Reservoir inflows remain below normal and water management must be guided by rainfall in upstream states to protect irrigation and drinking water."

Special Chief Secretary Energy Navin Mittal observed, "Reduced hydropower generation requires prudent electricity use, greater reliance on solar energy and integrated energy planning."

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Vinay Kumar said, "Forest conservation and healthy river catchments are vital for climate resilience, while prolonged dry spells could increase stress on wildlife and human animal conflict."

Commissioner Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Divya Devarajan said, "Village level rainwater harvesting, farm ponds and community water conservation will strengthen climate resilience." Director of Agriculture Gopi said, "Erratic rainfall and declining groundwater are likely to reduce paddy cultivation, while pulses, oilseeds, millets and other drought tolerant crops are expected to expand. District specific advisories are being prepared for farmers."

IMD scientist Dr Stella cautioned that "El Niño is expected to strengthen in the coming months, with below normal rainfall likely across many parts of Telangana and the possibility of a hotter summer with increased heatwaves and water stress." Senior officials, scientists, university vice chancellors and experts from research institutions participated in the meeting and agreed to develop a comprehensive scientific roadmap to minimise the impact of El Niño on Telangana's agriculture, water resources and rural livelihoods.