El Nino Is Set To Further Disrupt India's $300 Billion Farm Economy

Why in news

The developing 'super El Nino' and delayed monsoon rainfall are threatening India's $300 billion farm economy and food security.

Background

India's farm economy is valued at approximately $300 billion. The current monsoon delay is specifically impacting staple crops including rice, cotton, and pulses in central India and the Deccan region.

Facts for Prelims

• FactIndia's farm economy is valued at approximately $300 billion
• PlaceDeccan and Central India are identified as key regions currently facing rainfall deficits
• S&TEl Nino refers to the warming of surface waters in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean

For Mains

Q. Analyze how climate-induced phenomena like El Nino impact India's food security and suggest measures to build resilience in the agricultural sector.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Supply chain vulnerability: Price volatility in staples like pulses and cotton due to localized crop failures
• Irrigation limitations: Dependence on groundwater in the Deccan region during prolonged dry spells
• Inflationary pressure: Correlation between monsoon delays and food price inflation in the domestic market

Keywords: Food Security · Climate Resilience · Monsoon Variability · Agri-Economics · Price Volatility

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