Telangana expects 20% drop in paddy output due to dry spell

Paddy cultivation in Telangana is likely to experience a significant shortfall of at least 20% during the current Kharif season, officials said on Wednesday. The decline is attributed to deficit rainfall and an extended dry spell across the state, driven by El Niño weather conditions.

The weather pattern has impacted sowing and crop development cycles in major agricultural districts. State authorities are monitoring the situation closely as paddy is a key crop for the region's economy and food security.