Let us all unite to prevent the scourge of drought

The impact of El Niño is likely to extend well beyond rainfall. Inadequate precipitation can disrupt sowing, slow crop growth and reduce yields. With insufficient inflows into tanks and minor irrigation sources, farmers may have to depend increasingly on borewells and open wells, raising the demand for reliable electricity to operate irrigation pumps.

If shortages of water and power reduce agricultural activity, rural labourers and their families could also face a decline in income.