Andhra Pradesh has declared an early Kharif drought across 388 mandals in 21 districts after recording a severe rainfall deficit during the southwest monsoon season.The state government classified 283 mandals as severely drought-affected and another 105 as moderately affected, highlighting widespread agricultural distress.According to official figures, Andhra Pradesh received 197.6 millimetres of rainfall between June and August 2026, against the normal 424.3 millimetres.

This represents a rainfall deficit of 53.4%, with prevailing El Niño conditions contributing to prolonged dry spells.The Revenue Department issued the drought declaration on October 1 following recommendations from a high-level committee.The committee reviewed district-level assessments submitted by collectors and evaluated rainfall shortages, crop conditions and groundwater availability.

Andhra Pradesh Speeds Up Drought Relief Measures

Andhra Pradesh has accelerated its drought declaration after officials assessed vegetation health, reservoir storage and soil moisture conditions to determine the severity of the crisis. Instead of waiting until the usual October 31 deadline, the government announced the drought status early to expedite relief measures and improve farmers’ access to institutional credit. Rayalaseema remains among the worst-affected regions, with 186 mandals identified as drought-hit, highlighting growing concerns over agricultural losses and water shortages.

Among these, 159 mandals have been classified as severely affected.Districts including Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapur, Nandyal, Annamayya and Chittoor have reported extensive drought conditions.The rainfall shortage has raised concerns about crop development, irrigation availability and agricultural livelihoods.District collectors have been instructed to publish official drought notifications in English and Telugu. The declaration provides an administrative basis for agricultural loan restructuring, input subsidies and other eligible relief measures.

Meanwhile, the opposition YSR Congress Party has questioned the timing of the announcement and the exclusion of Nellore district.The government must now coordinate relief implementation, assess crop losses and address water shortages in affected communities.Timely assistance will remain important for protecting farmers and supporting agricultural recovery across drought-hit regions.