Indian Farmers Face Crop Loss After Floods Defy El Niño Forecasts

Mongabay India · environment

Farmers in Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh, prepared for a dry monsoon season based on El Niño forecasts, planting drought-resistant crops like sesame. However, the region experienced 90% more rainfall than normal, leading to widespread flooding and crop damage. This stark contrast between forecasts and actual weather patterns highlights the growing difficulty for farmers in planning their agricultural activities. Tenant and small farmers face additional challenges in accessing compensation due to documentation and processing delays, exacerbating their losses.