India, June 17 -- Acknowledging that the monsoon is likely to be "relatively severe" due to El Nino in 12 States, including Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Agriculture Minister Chouhan on Tuesday directed officials to be ready with advanced contingency plans.

"In 9-10 States where the impact of El Nino may be relatively higher, coordinated meetings should be organised with District Magistrates, Agriculture Departments, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and other extension systems of the identified districts," Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who chaired the weekly review meeting on Kharif 2026 preparations, said.

Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) shows the country received just 19.2 mm of rainfall between June 4 an...