Hyderabad: Anticipating erratic weather linked to El Nino, Telangana govt is preparing to steer farmers away from large-scale paddy cultivation this Kharif season. Instead, officials are urging a move toward less water-intensive, short-duration crops that can better withstand rainfall fluctuations and secure farmer incomes.Agriculture and horticulture departments have drawn up a joint strategy to promote alternatives that balance climate risks with economic returns. Field-level officers will soon begin outreach across villages and mandals, guiding farmers on crop choices based on local water availability and monsoon forecasts.Over-reliance on paddyWhile early forecasts suggest near-normal rainfall in June, officials caution against expanding paddy acreage. Experts warn that prolonged dry spells in July and Aug could severely impact crops dependent on continuous water supply.To minimise risks, paddy cultivation is being advised only in command areas with assured irrigation capable of sustaining the crop through Sept. Elsewhere, farmers are encouraged to switch to pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture crops.Diversification driveTelangana’s Kharif plan covers 1.31 crore acres. Traditionally, paddy occupies nearly half this area. This year, officials aim to restrict it to 35 lakh acres — far below the usual 65 lakh acres — in view of climate uncertainty.The govt is promoting red gram, soybean, groundnut, sesame, sunflower, and safflower. Horticulture officials are also pushing fruits and vegetables, citing stronger market demand and higher profit potential.To support the transition, marketing infrastructure is being strengthened, with plans to facilitate direct farm-to-market sales to help farmers secure better prices and reduce middlemen.Departmental estimates suggest maize may cover 5.4 lakh acres, red gram 5.1 lakh acres, and soybean 4.1 lakh acres. Chilli is expected on 1.9 lakh acres, while green gram, black gram, and groundnut will also occupy substantial areas.For those who still opt for paddy, officials recommend coarse varieties over fine-grain types. Coarse varieties require less water, mature faster, and involve lower input costs — making them more suitable for a season marked by rainfall uncertainty.With climate variability increasingly shaping agricultural decisions, officials say this year’s focus is clear: Reduce farmers’ exposure to weather-related losses while ensuring stable incomes through diversified cropping patterns.
