Discuss the background of agriculture in Andhra Pradesh and critically examine how key agricultural inputs such as rainfall, temperature, irrigation and power are likely to be affected by climate change.
In short
Agriculture in Andhra Pradesh is largely rainfed and spread across arid to sub-humid zones, and climate change threatens it through erratic monsoon rain, heat stress on crops, groundwater depletion and unreliable farm power. Drought-prone Rayalaseema receives only about 520 mm of rainfall, against a state average of about 911 mm.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 249 words
Irrigation and Power Infrastructure
About 50% irrigation coverage exists; major projects like Polavaram aim to improve water availability, but fiscal constraints and inter-state disputes over Krishna and Godavari rivers limit expansion. Power deficits and subsidy burdens strain agricultural electricity supply, reducing pump reliability and affecting timely irrigation.
Rainfall and Temperature Effects
Southwest monsoon unpredictability reduces kharif crop reliability2, especially in drought-prone Rayalaseema (520 mm rainfall). Summer temperatures up to 45°C increase evapotranspiration and pest outbreaks, reducing yields and food grain production.
Climate-Resilient Irrigation and Power
Invest in micro-irrigation and water-saving technologies, prioritising over-exploited mandals to improve water use efficiency. Integrate renewable energy into agricultural power supply and rationalise subsidies3 to ensure affordable, reliable electricity for irrigation pumps.
Promote Climate-Smart Agriculture
Scale up programmes like APCNF (natural farming) and Soil Health Cards, and promote agroforestry and integrated pest management. Strengthen institutional coordination and extension services to enhance climate resilience among small and marginal farmers.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2025 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.