With most components of the nation more likely to witness above-normal temperatures within the March-May interval, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday requested officers to take rapid measures to mitigate dangers to crops, fodder and the well being of individuals.

PM Modi’s evaluate of the nation’s preparedness to take care of sizzling climate assumes significance amid predictions of a return of El Nino situations within the Pacific that might presage a weaker monsoon in India, leading to decrease crop output and better costs.

CPI-based retail inflation shot as much as a 3-month excessive of 6.5% in January on the again of rising meals inflation and sticky core inflation. Cereal inflation rose for the fifth straight month at 16% on 12 months in January, reporting its greatest leap since June 2013.

“Prime Minister instructed that availability of fodder and of water in reservoirs should be tracked. Food Corporation of India was asked to ensure optimal storage of grains in extreme weather conditions,” in accordance with an official assertion.

In a high-level assembly with officers, Modi was briefed concerning the prospects of the forthcoming monsoon, the impression on rabi crops, the preparedness of medical infrastructure and preparation for disasters associated to warmth and mitigation measures.

Last month, the IMD had predicted that the utmost temperatures throughout March-May will stay above-normal ranges over east, central, north-east and a few components of the north west area.

The probability of scorching summer season warmth could possibly be damaging for the wheat crop, which has simply entered the flowering stage. Lower wheat output might additionally result in a depletion of the official shares of grain. The agriculture ministry has lately arrange a committee to observe the impression of sizzling and dry climate situations on standing wheat crops.

The PM was additionally briefed about efforts underway to observe irrigation water provide, fodder and ingesting water. Further, he was briefed concerning the preparedness of states and hospital infrastructure when it comes to the supply of required provides and preparedness for emergencies.

The PM requested IMD to difficulty every day climate forecasts in a way which will be simply interpreted and disseminated.