About the Situation:
India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported August 2023 as the driest in 123 years, witnessing a rainfall deficit of 36%. This anomaly has raised concerns of a potential drought year. A drought year occurs when monsoon rainfall falls below a 10% deficit from the long-term average. Historical data shows that 10 out of the past 14 drought years were linked to El Niño occurrences.
Regional Impact of Drought:
- Drought occurrences in consecutive monsoon seasons are frequent in specific regions: northwest India (particularly west Rajasthan), Saurashtra & Kutch, Jammu & Kashmir, and Rayalaseema in the Peninsular India.
Understanding Drought:
- Drought signifies a prolonged dry phase in the natural climate cycle, often characterized by deficient precipitation leading to water scarcity.
- Climatic factors like high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity can exacerbate the severity of droughts.
- Droughts can significantly impact health, agriculture, economies, energy sources, and the environment.
Past Drought Incidents:
- Notably, during 1965 and 1966, substantial parts of India faced severe drought due to deficient monsoon rainfall.
Types of Droughts:
- Meteorological Drought: Occurs when seasonal rainfall remains below 75% of the long-term average. It’s classified as ‘moderate’ (26-50% deficit) or ‘severe’ (exceeds 50% deficit).
- Hydrological Drought: Stream flows inadequacy to fulfill established water requirements under a given management system.
- Agricultural Drought: Inadequate soil moisture for healthy crop growth leading to extreme stress and wilting.
- Socio-economic Drought: Abnormal water shortage affecting various economic and social aspects, leading to unemployment, migration, and discontent in society.
Impacts of Current Drought:
Recent data from the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare indicates reduced sowing of kharif crops:
- Pulses saw a decrease from 13 million ha in 2022 to 11.9 million ha in 2023.
- Oilseed area dropped by 0.18 million ha, while jute and cotton cultivation also declined.
- However, rice, sugarcane, and cereals sowing has increased compared to the previous year.
The drought’s agricultural impacts highlight potential challenges and consequences for various crops, prompting concerns about food security and economic implications.
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