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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast below-average rainfall across western and southern India over the next two weeks, raising concerns about Kharif crop sowing and agricultural productivity.
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Kharif Crop Sowing July 2026
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Monsoon Slowdown May Impact Kharif Crop Sowing as IMD Forecasts Below-Average Rainfall in Parts of India
Introduction
India’s southwest monsoon, the backbone of the country’s agricultural economy, is expected to weaken across western and southern regions over the next two weeks, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The forecast has raised concerns among farmers and policymakers as the Kharif sowing season enters a crucial phase.
Agriculture remains highly dependent on monsoon rainfall, with nearly half of India’s farmland relying on rain-fed irrigation. A prolonged dry spell could affect the sowing and early growth of crops such as cotton, soybean, maize, and pulses. (Reuters)
Key Highlights
- IMD forecasts below-average rainfall across western and southern India.
- Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala may receive less rain.
- Kharif sowing remains below last year’s pace.
- Farmers are being advised to adopt short-duration and low-water crops where necessary.
- Authorities continue to monitor monsoon conditions and agricultural progress. (Reuters)
Monsoon Expected to Enter a Weak Phase
After heavy rainfall during the first week of July helped reduce the country’s rainfall deficit, meteorologists now expect the southwest monsoon to enter a relatively weak phase.
According to IMD scientists, the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is not expected to support strong rainfall over the coming fortnight. As a result, rainfall may remain below normal across several western and southern states. (Reuters)
Kharif Sowing Remains Below Last Year’s Level
The delayed arrival and uneven distribution of monsoon rainfall earlier this season affected sowing activities across many agricultural regions.
Although recent showers encouraged farmers to resume planting, the total Kharif sowing area is still lower than the corresponding period last year. Agriculture experts say timely rainfall during the coming weeks will be critical for ensuring healthy crop establishment. (Reuters)
Government Advises Farmers to Adapt
The Ministry of Agriculture has advised farmers in rain-fed regions to consider crops that require less water if rainfall remains inadequate.
Recommended alternatives include:
- Pearl millet (Bajra)
- Maize (Corn)
- Green gram (Moong)
- Other short-duration crop varieties
The government has also ensured adequate seed availability and contingency planning to minimize disruptions to agricultural operations. (Reuters)
Economic Importance of a Healthy Monsoon
A successful monsoon season plays a vital role in India’s economy.
Good rainfall supports:
- Higher agricultural production.
- Stable food prices.
- Better rural incomes.
- Increased water availability.
- Improved hydroelectric generation.
Conversely, prolonged dry spells may reduce crop yields and contribute to higher food inflation if production declines significantly. (Reuters)
Outlook for the Coming Weeks
Weather experts will continue monitoring the evolution of the monsoon and any low-pressure systems that may improve rainfall.
Farmers are encouraged to follow advisories issued by the IMD and state agriculture departments while planning sowing and irrigation activities.
If rainfall improves later in July, crop prospects could recover substantially despite the slow start to the season. (Reuters)
Conclusion
India’s agriculture sector is entering a critical period as forecasts point to weaker monsoon activity across several key farming states. While recent rains have provided relief, continued monitoring and timely policy support will be essential to protect Kharif production and rural livelihoods.
With government agencies and meteorologists closely tracking weather patterns, farmers remain hopeful that improved rainfall later this month will support a successful agricultural season. (Reuters)
FAQs
Q1. Why is the monsoon slowdown important?
A weaker monsoon can delay Kharif sowing, reduce crop yields, and affect food production across India. (Reuters)
Q2. Which states may receive below-average rainfall?
IMD forecasts below-average rainfall for Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala over the next two weeks. (Reuters)
Q3. What steps has the government taken?
The government has advised farmers to adopt suitable crop varieties where needed and has strengthened seed availability and contingency measures. (The Times of India)
Source Links
- Reuters – India’s Monsoon to Weaken Over West, South, Slowing Crop Sowing
https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/indias-monsoon-weaken-over-west-south-slowing-crop-sowing-2026-07-09/ - The Economic Times – Rainfall Deficit Narrows to Boost Kharif Sowing in July
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/rainfall-deficit-narrows-to-24-to-boost-kharif-sowing-in-july/articleshow/132272078.cms - The Times of India – Government Steps Up Measures to Mitigate Impact of Uneven Rainfall
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/government-steps-up-measures-to-mitigate-impact-of-skewed-distribution-of-rainfall-over-farming-operations/articleshow/132265797.cms - The Economic Times – Kharif Sowing Picks Up but Still Below Last Year’s Level
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/agriculture/kharif-sowing-picks-up-but-still-21-below-last-year/articleshow/132224809.cms
