Meghalaya CM calls climate change an ‘existential crisis’ as state records 74% rainfall deficit

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has described climate change as an “existential crisis” and called for urgent, coordinated action to prepare the state for the potential impact of El Niño after Meghalaya recorded a sharp rainfall deficit during the early monsoon season.

Speaking at a workshop on “Developing State Response for El Niño Preparedness: Strengthening Food and Water Security” on Friday, Sangma said climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate reality affecting governments and communities alike.

“Climate change is no longer a future challenge; it is our present reality. While forecasts may change, preparedness cannot wait. Proactive and collaborative efforts involving government departments, communities and institutions are essential to minimise the potential impacts of climate change,” he said.

‘We cannot wait’

The chief minister stressed that governments must begin preparing for climate-related risks without waiting for complete certainty in weather forecasts.

“We cannot wait for perfect plans. We must act now. Every step we take today will shape the resilience of future generations,” Sangma said, while also advocating natural farming practices tailored to Meghalaya’s unique ecological conditions as part of the state’s climate adaptation strategy.

Meghalaya faces severe rainfall shortfall

The warning comes as Meghalaya—one of India’s wettest states—grapples with an unusually weak monsoon and growing concerns over the possible effects of El Niño on rainfall, agriculture and water resources.

According to the latest India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, Meghalaya received just 192.9 mm of rainfall between June 1 and July 1, compared with the normal 750.8 mm, placing it in the “large deficient” category.

Officials said the state has recorded a cumulative monsoon rainfall deficit of about 74%, the highest among all northeastern states this season.

On July 1 alone, Meghalaya received only 3 mm of rainfall against the normal 28.7 mm, translating into a deficit of nearly 90%, according to weather officials.

Concerns over farming and water security

The sharp decline in rainfall has raised concerns about its impact on agriculture, water availability and the state’s fragile ecosystem.

The deficit has coincided with the crucial kharif sowing season, when farmers are engaged in paddy cultivation and horticulture. Experts warn that if dry conditions persist, delayed sowing, lower soil moisture and reduced crop yields could follow.

Environmental experts have also cautioned that below-normal rainfall could diminish river flows, reduce groundwater recharge and increase pressure on biodiversity as well as the tourism sector, which typically sees a surge in visitors during the monsoon.

The situation is especially notable given that Meghalaya is home to Sohra (Cherrapunji) and Mawsynram, two places renowned for receiving some of the highest annual rainfall in the world.

Northeast also records below-normal rainfall

The IMD said East and Northeast India together recorded a cumulative rainfall deficit of around 40% during the period.

Among the northeastern states, Meghalaya reported the largest shortfall, followed by Manipur (71%), Nagaland (51%) and Arunachal Pradesh (45%). Sikkim was the only state in the region to record above-normal rainfall, posting a surplus of 15%.