Focus on groundwater conservation, borewell recharge, and drought-resistant crop varieties
Report by : VIJAYKUMAR PATAR
Bengaluru, July 21 (Karnataka Information):
To tackle the rising temperatures and drought-like conditions resulting from the intensifying global ‘El Niño’ phenomenon, the Government of Karnataka has adopted a comprehensive and visionary strategy.
What is El Niño?
El Niño (Spanish for “the little boy” or “Christ Child”) refers to the unusual warming of surface waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
This event disrupts global wind patterns and rainfall distribution. Experts have warned that this could be one of the strongest El Niño events in the last 150 years.
As a result, India and particularly Karnataka faces the risk of a weakened Southwest Monsoon and severe drought conditions.
Temperature Rise and Drought Warning
According to advisories from the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), this extreme weather pattern is likely to persist until May 2027.
Rising Temperatures: Record-high temperatures and severe heatwaves are expected.
Monsoon Failure & Water Scarcity Deficit rainfall will lower reservoir levels, causing acute shortages for agriculture and drinking water.
Economic Impact : A dip in agricultural yield could drive up food prices.
Key Preventive Measures & Initiatives by the Government
Borewell Recharge and Groundwater Protection
K-GIS Digital Registration Comprehensive data for nearly 37 lakh borewells across the state is being uploaded to the KSRSAC K-GIS portal.
Technical Training & Progress Review : Special training is being provided for borewell inspection, repair, and recharge initiatives, with progress reviews conducted every 15 days.
Drilling Restrictions : Sinking new borewells has been strictly prohibited in severely depleted groundwater zones (over-exploited areas).
Water Conservation and Infrastructure Development
VBGRAMG Scheme : Focused on rainwater harvesting in rural areas, constructing check dams (earthen, boulder, and gabion check dams), and rejuvenating traditional water bodies.
Wastewater Reuse : Treated wastewater is being routed for use in industries, public parks, and construction activities.
Water Budgeting : Implementing ‘Water Budgeting’ at the local body level to ensure efficient water management.
Support for Farmers : Promoting Drought-Resistant Crops
To mitigate losses caused by rainfall deficits, the government is encouraging farmers to cultivate low-water, heat-resilient crops. Millets (Ragi, Jowar, Groundnut, etc.): Can thrive with just 250–400 mm of rainfall.
Pulses (Chickpea, Pigeon pea, Cowpea): Deep-rooted crops that draw deep soil moisture and enhance soil fertility.
Oilseeds (Sunflower, Sesame, Niger): Require 400–750 mm of rainfall and are resilient to dry spells.
To successfully navigate this tough climatic challenge, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh has urged every citizen to restrict energy consumption, transition to renewable energy sources, and practice strict water conservation. She appealed for wholehearted public cooperation in the government’s massive water conservation movement.
