Early monsoon in Thiruvananthapuram, a relief to farmers

Heavy rains lashed Thiruvananthapuram, as monsoon arrived on time in Kerala, much to the relief of the farmers .

However, heavy downpour caused water logging on the road and forced people to stay indoors, though some vehicles waded through the waterlogged streets.

The southwest monsoon, which is usually active every year from June 1 to September, would boost prospects for higher agricultural yields, end concerns for water shortages and provide relief from the scorching sun.

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India, one of the world's largest producers and consumers of food crops, relies on rainwater to irrigate 55 percent of its farmland.

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Seven southern and western states were hit by drought last year and are in desperate need of timely rains to aid a recovery.

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According to estimates by the meteorological observatory, monsoon will gradually move to cover the entire country by mid-July.

Adequate rains could help the rural economy and keep inflation subdued, as government of India prepares for a round of state polls this year and a national election by May 2014.