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.

Agriculture officials say weather-based advisories are being issued regularly to help farmers adapt to changing rainfall conditions.

Despite current deficits, meteorologists expect monsoon activity to revive in parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh over the coming days. Meanwhile, the Union Agriculture Ministry has identified 315 districts as vulnerable and prepared contingency plans to limit agricultural losses.