Can India's farmers withstand another weak monsoon? Experts raise red flags

India’s delayed monsoon and below-normal rainfall forecast have triggered concern among farmers across northern and eastern states, where agriculture remains heavily dependent on seasonal rains. Experts warn that weaker monsoon activity could affect kharif crop production, particularly water-intensive crops such as paddy and rice.

Agricultural scientists say nearly 75–80 percent of India’s annual rainfall arrives during the monsoon, making it critical for farming and rural livelihoods. To reduce risk, authorities are advising farmers to conserve water, maintain farm reservoirs and shift toward short-duration crop varieties that require less moisture.