Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has called on farmers to reduce dependence on water-intensive crops such as paddy and chilli and instead cultivate millets, pulses and oil palm as the state braces for possible drought conditions. The appeal comes amid concerns over declining reservoir storage and limited water availability.

During a review of water resources in Khammam district, the minister stressed the importance of conserving every available drop of water and warned that the expected impact of a "super El Niño" could be more severe than previous droughts. Officials have been instructed to continue creating awareness among farmers about crop diversification and efficient water use to minimise agricultural losses.

The state is simultaneously working on emergency water management measures, including diverting Godavari water to meet drinking water needs and preparing contingency plans if rainfall remains below normal. The promotion of millets forms a key part of Telangana's broader strategy to improve agricultural resilience under changing climate conditions.