The southwest monsoon has made a subdued start this year, with India recording a 35 per cent rainfall deficit during the first half of June, raising concerns over water availability, reservoir levels and the progress of the kharif sowing season.
According to rainfall data for the period between June 1 and June 16, the country received significantly below-normal precipitation, with three of the four meteorological regions reporting deficient rainfall.
The worst-affected region was Central India, which recorded a rainfall deficit of 61 per cent. East and Northeast India received 43 per cent less rainfall than normal, while South Peninsula registered a deficit of 24 per cent. Northwest India was the only region to receive above-normal rainfall, recording a surplus of 5 per cent during the period.
The uneven distribution of rainfall has resulted in a widening national deficit despite the monsoon's gradual advance across the country. Weather experts have attributed the shortfall to temporary disruptions in monsoon circulation patterns and the delayed formation of favourable weather systems over the Bay of Bengal.
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The weak start has also affected water storage levels in major reservoirs. Data indicate that reservoir storage stood at around 28 per cent of total capacity, lower than the corresponding period in several recent years. Reservoir levels are closely monitored as they play a critical role in irrigation, drinking water supply and hydropower generation.
The June rainfall deficit comes at a crucial stage for agriculture, as farmers across many states begin sowing operations for key kharif crops such as rice, pulses, cotton and oilseeds. Prolonged rainfall deficiency could affect planting schedules and soil moisture levels, although agricultural experts note that the overall monsoon performance during the coming weeks will be more critical than the early-season shortfall.
The India Meteorological Department has maintained that monsoon activity is expected to improve in the coming days, with forecasts indicating increased rainfall over several parts of the country. The progress of the monsoon during the second half of June will be closely watched by policymakers, farmers and water resource managers.
A revival in rainfall would help replenish reservoirs, improve soil moisture and support agricultural operations, easing concerns generated by the weak start to the season.
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