Andhra Pradesh Faces Severe Agricultural Crisis Amid Monsoon Shortfall
Andhra Pradesh is grappling with a 51% monsoon shortfall, severely impacting agriculture. By August 19, Kharif sowing covered only 18.9 lakh hectares, about 61% of the normal target. Farmers are struggling with rising costs and water scarcity, leading to a shift from traditional paddy cultivation to drought-resistant crops. The state recorded a foodgrain production of 237 lakh metric tonnes last year, but the ongoing crisis threatens the livelihoods of nearly 62% of its population. Tenant farmers face additional challenges due to lack of documentation, limiting access to credit and insurance. Calls for emergency relief and support measures are growing as farmers await rain and water supplies to sustain their crops.
Published 1 day ago • 28 Aug 2026, 07:51 AM IST