The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to cultivate paddy only in the most productive areas and shift to field crops in other areas, as the country prepares for the predicted dry conditions associated with El Niño.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Deputy Director of Agriculture (Research) Dr H Shyamalee said that although there are paddy varieties capable of withstanding water shortages, the Department was encouraging farmers to turn more towards field crops in light of the impending El Niño conditions.

“Especially in the dry zone, the Department advises farmers to grow paddy in the more productive areas and to cultivate field crops such as Kurakkan (finger millet) and Undu (ulundu/urad dal/black gram) in the remaining areas,” she said.

She added that programmes were being conducted in collaboration with the Irrigation Department and the Agrarian Department to raise awareness and ensure adherence to these guidelines as El Niño conditions approach.

“The compliance of farmers has been at a good level. They have also started early planting, as recommended by the Government,” she said.

Dr Shyamalee further confirmed that seed paddy production had already been completed, while the production of field crop seeds was currently underway.

“Stocks of field crop seeds that have already been produced are ready for distribution as well,” she said.

The Department’s guidelines and measures come amid predictions of weather conditions associated with El Niño. According to the Meteorology Department, the South-West monsoon has brought below-normal rainfall due to the El Niño effect, resulting in a severe dry spell across many Districts.

Authorities have warned that the country will experience insufficient rainfall and dry weather conditions leading up to next month (October), with further dry conditions also anticipated early next year (2027).