El Niño is a climate phenomenon that warms the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, altering rainfall and temperature patterns worldwide. In India, El Niño is often associated with a weaker southwest monsoon, which can significantly affect pulse cultivation. Impact of El Niño on Pulse Crops 🌧️ 1. Reduced Rainfall Lower monsoon rainfall leads to soil moisture deficiency. Rainfed pulse crops such as Tur (Pigeon Pea), Urad (Black Gram), and Moong (Green Gram) are especially vulnerable. Delayed sowing and poor crop establishment become common. 🌡️ 2. Higher Temperatures Increased daytime temperatures accelerate crop maturity. Flowering and pod formation are affected, resulting in flower drop and fewer pods. Heat stress reduces seed size and overall yield. 🌱 3. Lower Productivity Approximate yield reduction during a moderate to strong El Niño: Crop Estimated Yield Impact Tur (Pigeon Pea) 10–30% decrease Urad (Black Gram) 15–35% decrease Moong (Green Gram) 10–25% decre...