Northeast India, home to some of the wettest places on Earth, typically experiences heavy monsoon rainfall driven by moisture-laden southwest winds from the Bay of Bengal.
Northeast India, home to some of the wettest places on Earth, typically experiences heavy monsoon rainfall driven by moisture-laden southwest winds from the Bay of Bengal. This abundant annual precipitation sustains lush tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, as well as farmlands, making the region an environmental and biodiversity hotspot. However, the region has seen a dramatic shift in rainfall patterns over recent decades, a change that has accelerated in recent years. This is evidenced by frequent floods caused by abrupt heavy downpours, often followed by prolonged dry spells. The region, barring Sikkim, faces a severe rainfall deficit, experiencing more than a 40 per cent reduction, marking the driest June in 126 years. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this is attributed to weak rain-bearing systems over the Bay of Bengal, the absence of active monsoon troughs, and the influence of El Niño. Meghalaya has been hit hardest, with a 74 per cent deficit in rainfall, followed by Manipur at 71 per cent and Nagaland at 56 per cent. With precipitation during the remaining monsoon months expected to be below normal, there is no relief in sight for the region. This situation is particularly concerning because adequate rainfall in June and July is crucial for kharif crops, including paddy. Any disruption in rainfall – whether too little, too much, or poorly timed – can severely impact agriculture, which is the primary source of livelihood for approximately 70 per cent of the region's population. If this fundamental pillar of rural employment is affected, food security in the region will inevitably be threatened.
Nagaland is bearing the brunt of climate change and extreme weather events, characterised by flash floods, prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, and uneven rain distribution. Areas that normally record adequate rainfall now experience shortened rainy periods. While vital water sources such as rivers, streams, and springs that supply farmlands and paddy fields are drying up at an alarming rate, sudden downpours trigger landslides in hilly terrains and floods in urban areas. This has a detrimental effect on agricultural work, crop yields, and the daily lives of residents. Given that the situation is unlikely to improve, there is an urgent need to build resilience for future generations, adapt to climate change, and implement long-term measures, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to clean energy, restoring forests, managing water resources effectively, and enhancing education. Governments must empower farmers by investing in irrigation projects and promoting climate-resilient agriculture, such as introducing drought-resistant crop varieties. Food security can be safeguarded by diversifying food production systems, improving food storage facilities, and boosting production through the integration of modern technologies with traditional farming practices. Building resilience and adaptation is the way forward.