Training-cum-Awareness Programme on the possible effects of El Niño during Kharif and Rabi seasons
On 18th August 2026, an “Training-cum-Awareness Programme on the possible effects of El Niño during Kharif and Rabi seasons” was conducted at Malkaram Rythu Vedika, Malkaram Village, Shamshabad Mandal, Ranga Reddy District, by ATMA in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture for the farmers of Malkaram village. Dr. Sridhar Siddhi, Senior Scientist, RRU; Dr. I. Aruna Sri, Scientist (Plant Protection); and Dr. U. Sravanthi, Scientist (Horticulture), FDU, ARI participated in the programme and created awareness among farmers on climate-resilient agriculture and crop management under changing weather conditions.
During the programme, the scientists discussed the possible effects of El Niño during Kharif and Rabi seasons, particularly its influence on rainfall distribution, temperature, soil moisture and crop performance. Farmers were advised to select crops based on the onset, intensity and distribution of rainfall, soil moisture and availability of irrigation water. For Kharif, detailed discussions were held on rice, maize and cotton, including suitable crop choices under normal, delayed and deficit rainfall situations. Under limited water availability, farmers were advised to prefer short-duration and relatively water-efficient crops and adopt appropriate moisture conservation practices. For Rabi, suitable vegetable crops, suitable leafy and root vegetables were discussed based on prevailing temperature, soil type, market demand and water availability.
The importance of water-use efficiency was emphasized, particularly under uncertain rainfall conditions. Farmers were advised to adopt drip irrigation, mulching, proper irrigation scheduling, rainwater harvesting, farm ponds, soil-moisture conservation and need-based irrigation. The scientists also emphasized balanced nutrient management and improvement of soil organic matter to enhance water retention and crop resilience.
As part of the programme, the team also visited the Bitter Gourd farm and Guava orchard of Mr. Jaipal Reddy at Malkaram. The crops were inspected and existing pest problems were identified. Suitable recommendations were given on integrated pest management, nutrient and water management, pruning and training, field sanitation and need-based plant protection measures. The field visit provided practical exposure to farmers and helped them understand the application of scientific crop management practices under field conditions.
Overall, the programme created awareness among farmers on El Niño preparedness, rainfall-based crop selection, water-use efficiency, climate-resilient farming and integrated crop and pest management, thereby helping them make suitable crop management decisions for both Kharif and Rabi seasons.
