Andhra Pradesh has declared drought in 21 districts after a 53.4 percent rainfall deficit during the June-August monsoon period. The Revenue Department’s October 1 order covers 388 of the state’s 688 mandals — 283 severe and 105 moderate.

The declaration unlocks relief for farmers, including assistance payments, drought-resistant seeds for rabi planting and emergency funds. Maharashtra and Karnataka have made similar declarations this season.

India recorded its fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 2001, at about 87 percent of the long-period average. Weak June, August and September rains wiped out a decent July.

The IMD forecasts below-normal October rainfall for most of India, raising risks for rabi sowing of wheat, mustard and pulses in rain-fed areas.

Groundwater has also taken a hit: the Opposition YSR Congress Party said nearly seven lakh borewells had dried up by August, and questioned why the government waited until October 1 to declare the drought.