Drought and Heatwave Threat Rises to 35% in India Amidst El Niño Concerns

TV9 Hindi · environment

India faces a growing threat of drought and heatwave events, with the affected area expanding significantly. A study published in February 2026 revealed that the geographical region impacted by simultaneous drought and heatwaves in India has increased from 10% to 35% between 1951 and 2016. This escalating risk now extends to traditionally wetter regions like Odisha, West Bengal, and Assam, impacting agriculture and rural livelihoods. The strengthening El Niño phenomenon further exacerbates these concerns, potentially weakening monsoon rains and increasing temperatures, which could lead to substantial crop yield reductions.