El Nino induces drought in India, weighing on agriculture

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El Nino induces drought in India, weighing on agriculture

2026-06-13 13:16 Last Updated At：06-15 11:51

A strong El Nino is driving unusually high temperatures and slashing rainfall in India during the country's June-September monsoon season, threatening crop yields and disrupting supply chains.

In the western state of Maharashtra, the third largest by area in India, farmers are worried about their harvest prospects and delaying planting schedules.

"Half of June has passed, and the rains still haven't arrived. We're currently cultivating sugarcane. Look at the plants behind me -- they are withering because there has been no rain. And because of the dry weather, we are also having to delay planting cotton," said Jalindar Wagh, a local farmer.

The impact of delayed planting has spread to the upstream supply chain, including sales of seeds and pesticides. In Maharashtra, products that are normally in peak sales season are now straggling, and some distribution businesses have halted operations altogether.

"There has been no rain across the entire state of Maharashtra. Because of that, our seeds and pesticides are lying in stock, since farmers aren't planning to buy them. If the rains keep getting delayed, the consequences, along with inflation, will start to show," said Rajendra Wagh, a local distributor.

With this year's monsoon rainfall expected to be below normal, India's meteorological department is urging farmers to switch to crops that require less water, fearing that overuse of irrigation systems could broaden the impact.

"Agriculture is rain-dependent. If this year's monsoon -- which we expect that it will be below normal, then it will impact those farmers also. So that's why we are advising farmers to go for such crops which require less water. Agriculture impacts electricity because hydropower electricity, which depends on the flow of rivers, will also dry up, because, due to lesser amount of rainfall, it will also impact the generation of hydro electricity. So, overall impact will be devastating," said meteorologist Mahesh Palawat.

More Germans developing interest in traveling across China for vacation

As China continues to refine its inbound policies for foreign travelers, a growing number of visitors from Germany are expected to arrive in the coming months, according to German tourism business.

Aside from classic scenic spots, immersive experiences rooted in Chinese culture become a major draw for German tourists.

German photographer Eden went to to Beijing in 2012. This year, he plans to revisit the Chinese capital and also tour Shanghai, in order to understand Chinese culture better.

"I wish to meet local cultural and artistic figures, such as photographers, fashion designers and artists, and have chances to chat with them," said Eden.

As for German sinologist Heinrich Geiger, he has been to China multiple times. He believed that calligraphy, Chinese paintings and cooking can all be attractions for foreigners to know better about China.

"I prefer stay in one or two places rather than travel around too many areas. In that way, I can get along with the locals and learn some traditional Chinese crafts," said Geiger.

German business insiders noted that China's visa-free policy for foreign travelers, and easier access to tour services are fueling larger travel demand among German tourists.

"I believe there will be about 500,000 to 600,000 German tourists traveling to China for vacation this year," said Bohland, general manager of a German tour operator.