Drought like conditions have emerged in 29 districts across Uttar Pradesh due to insufficient rainfall during the monsoon season. The eastern region, particularly 13 districts including Deoria, is the most severely affected, triggering fears of declining kharif crop yields.
While 99% of paddy nurseries have been prepared statewide, transplanting has only reached 65% due to dry fields. Sowing of other crops remains below average: maize (62%), millet (32%), pigeon pea (52%), groundnut (31%), and sesame (54%).
Farmers from Jaunpur, Azamgarh, and Deoria report dry canals, non-functional transformers, and parched fields. Deoria has recorded only 6.5% rainfall so far, making it the lowest in the state. Meanwhile Banda, Lalitpur, and other Bundelkhand districts have seen excess rainfall.
The Agriculture Department is providing subsidized seeds for dry weather crops like millet and has directed irrigation and power departments to maintain regular supply.
If rainfall remains low until July 31, drought declarations and contingency plans may follow.
