India faces severe drought conditions, notably in Maharashtra, with monsoon rainfall significantly below average. A strong El Niño is exacerbating the crisis, threatening both kharif and upcoming rabi harvests due to water scarcity and warmer temperatures. While Maharashtra's government has activated drought relief measures, other states must follow suit. The efficacy of central schemes like PMFBY will be tested. To pre-empt shortfalls, the author recommends extending duty-free imports to include all pulses, such as yellow peas, chana, and masoor, building on existing reductions for oils and certain pulses. This proactive supply-side management is crucial.