The Gujarat government has initiated a comprehensive preparedness plan to tackle any potential impact of El Niño conditions, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel chairing a high-level review meeting to assess the state’s readiness.
The meeting was attended by Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani and senior officials from the Agriculture, Irrigation, Water Supply, Narmada, Forest and Revenue Departments.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Vaghani said the state government has launched coordinated efforts across departments following forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating the possibility of El Niño conditions. The objective is to safeguard the interests of citizens, farmers and livestock while ensuring adequate water availability across the state.
Focus on Water Security
During the review, the Chief Minister assessed water storage levels in reservoirs across Gujarat, including the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Dam. He directed the Water Resources and Water Supply Departments to undertake advance planning in coordination with the Narmada canal network to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply.
As part of the strategy, reservoirs under the SAUNI (Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation) Yojana will be filled on priority to secure drinking water availability in the Saurashtra region.
In a major decision aimed at strengthening water security, the government has expanded the coverage of lakes eligible for Narmada water supply. Previously, only lakes located within a three-kilometre radius of the Narmada pipeline network were covered. The eligibility radius has now been increased to seven kilometres.
Under the Sujalam Sufalam Yojana, more than 300 lakes across North Gujarat will be filled with Narmada water to enhance water reserves and improve drought preparedness.
Agriculture Preparedness Measures
The Agriculture Department informed the meeting that sufficient stocks of seeds and fertilisers are available across the state for the Kharif 2026 season.
To mitigate any adverse impact of El Niño conditions, the department has prepared a comprehensive contingency crop planning framework. The plan includes scientific advisories for farmers and recommendations on short-duration and low-water-consuming crops suitable for changing weather conditions.
Officials also highlighted the use of satellite technology to monitor soil moisture and crop health. Through the AI-powered “Krushi Pragati” platform, real-time weather updates and agricultural advisories are being sent directly to more than 50 lakh farmers via SMS.
Livestock and Fodder Security
The state government has also prioritised livestock welfare as part of its preparedness strategy. The Forest and Animal Husbandry Departments have been directed to maintain adequate buffer stocks of fodder and make advance arrangements to ensure uninterrupted feed availability for animals.
According to officials, Gujarat currently has a fodder reserve sufficient for approximately two years.
Continuous Monitoring
The Chief Minister instructed the Revenue Department to maintain close coordination with district administrations and collectors across the state, undertake round-the-clock monitoring and remain fully prepared to respond to any emerging situation.
Vaghani noted that Gujarat has experienced eight El Niño years during the Kharif season between 2000 and 2026. He pointed out that El Niño does not necessarily lead to below-normal rainfall, citing 2006 and 2023 when the state received 117 per cent of normal rainfall despite severe El Niño conditions.
He urged farmers and citizens not to be influenced by rumours and to rely on official information and government advisories.
The minister said the state administration, various government departments and scientists from agricultural universities are working in close coordination under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to address any challenges that may arise due to El Niño conditions.
He added that the Gujarat government remains fully prepared and committed to protecting the interests of farmers, livestock owners and citizens across the state.