The Centre conducted a high-level review of the kharif season on July 7 and preparedness measures for a possible El Niño impact, with Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Dr. P.K. Mishra directing ministries to remain vigilant and ensure coordinated action.

The meeting included secretaries and other top government officials from over 15 ministries and departments such as the Ministries of Agriculture, Power, Health, Rural Development, Economic Affairs, Animal Husbandry, Consumer Affairs and Earth Sciences, among others, along with IMD.

IMD officials presented the overall rainfall scenario. They pointed out that although there had been a delay in the onset of monsoons in the regions of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra by 10 days, the deficiency in all-India rainfall has come down to 12% as of July 7. Monsoon activities have been recorded above average in the first week of July. Moreover, they predicted that a weak to moderate El Nino would be witnessed in July and August, though every El Nino year does not witness deficient monsoon.

The Agriculture Secretary outlined the government's preparedness measures, which include weekly Agriculture Crop Weather Watch meetings with states, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for managing El Niño-related risks at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and agricultural contingency plans for 262 vulnerable districts. Campaigns to expand coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and the Kisan Credit Card scheme have also been launched in vulnerable states.

Other departments also shared updates on their preparedness. The Ministry of Health has issued heatwave and dengue monitoring advisories, while the Department of Consumer Affairs reported adequate buffer stocks of rice, wheat and pulses. The Department of Fertilisers confirmed sufficient fertiliser availability for the upcoming rabi season. The Ministry of Rural Development stated that one crore person-days of employment had been generated under the Viksit Bharat initiatives as of July 1.

Principal Secretary Mishra directed all ministries to continue closely monitoring the situation and coordinate with state governments to assess the impact in affected districts. He emphasised the need to take timely remedial measures wherever vulnerable areas are identified and instructed officials to ensure the prompt availability of drinking water and fodder wherever required.