Telangana Government Declares 365 Mandals Drought-Affected Across 31 Districts

Telangana has declared 365 mandals across 31 of its 33 districts as drought-affected, as deficient rainfall and the influence of El Niño intensify concerns over agriculture and water availability. Of the affected mandals, 111 have been classified as facing severe drought, while 254 are experiencing moderate drought conditions. Chief Secretary Sanjay Jaju issued the orders, which will remain in force for six months.

The state government has directed district administrations to immediately implement relief measures to support farmers, livestock owners and rural communities. The measures include transferring agricultural input subsidies directly into farmers’ bank accounts, improving drinking water supplies, ensuring adequate fodder for cattle and establishing livestock camps wherever required. Officials have also been instructed to generate employment opportunities under the VB-G RAM G scheme to provide additional support to affected households.

District Collectors have been asked to raise the issue of agricultural loan restructuring before the State Level Bankers’ Committee. They must also seek action to prevent coercive loan recovery in accordance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, offering relief to farmers struggling with the financial consequences of crop losses and poor rainfall.

Telangana recorded a 17% rainfall deficit during the southwest monsoon season. Between June 1 and September 30, the state received 615.5 mm of rainfall against the normal 740.6 mm. The shortage has affected agricultural operations across several districts, with kharif crops facing adverse conditions in 18 districts.

The impact is particularly evident in paddy cultivation. The area under the crop has declined from 69.19 lakh acres in the previous season to around 57 lakh acres this year, raising concerns about agricultural production and farmers’ earnings.

The state’s water situation has become increasingly worrying, with major and medium reservoirs holding just 179.63 TMC against their combined capacity of 585 TMC. The reduced storage could put pressure on drinking water supplies, irrigation, livestock requirements and power generation.

The government attributed the unfavourable conditions to El Niño, weak low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal and prolonged dry spells that reduced the southwest monsoon’s impact.