Central Teams to Evaluate Drought Conditions in Karnataka and Maharashtra on October 3
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces assessment teams will visit drought-affected states next week.
Drought declared in Karnataka and significant areas of Maharashtra.
Central teams to assess conditions starting October 3.
Minister emphasizes collaboration to address climate change impacts.
On September 28, 2026, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that the central government will dispatch teams to Karnataka and Maharashtra to evaluate the ongoing drought situation. This decision was made during a national conference focused on preparing for the upcoming rabi (winter) season, where Chouhan highlighted the visible effects of climate change on agriculture.
Chouhan confirmed that Karnataka has officially declared a drought, while Maharashtra has reported drought conditions affecting approximately two-thirds of its territory. He expressed concern over the looming drought crisis not only in these two states but also in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The minister stated that a central team will be sent to Karnataka on October 3, and he has communicated with Maharashtra's Chief Minister regarding the situation there.
During his address, Chouhan urged state officials to take proactive measures to mitigate risks to the kharif (summer) crops, acknowledging that while some areas have seen good crop yields, others are at risk due to drought and water scarcity. He emphasized the need for a coordinated response to the challenges posed by shifting weather patterns, which have resulted in unseasonably cold temperatures at a time typically characterized by heat.
The implications of this drought assessment extend beyond immediate agricultural concerns, as it underscores the broader impact of climate change on food security in India. With significant portions of Maharashtra and Karnataka affected, the situation could have ripple effects on local economies and livelihoods. Chouhan reassured state officials that the central government is committed to supporting them in addressing these challenges.
Looking ahead, the central teams' evaluations are expected to provide critical insights into the drought's severity and inform necessary interventions. As the rabi season approaches, officials will need to balance immediate responses to the kharif season's challenges while preparing for the upcoming agricultural cycle. Chouhan's remarks reflect a growing recognition of the need for collaborative efforts to combat the impacts of climate change on agriculture.
