The deficit in southwest monsoon has narrowed and the sowing of summer (Kharif) crops is progressing well across the country, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said on Friday.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected overall monsoon to remain normal. However till August 8, rainfall is 5 per cent below the normal level.
"Monsoon was delayed a bit and there was some concern. By Gods grace, the rainfall has improved now and the deficit has narrowed," Tomar told reporters.
He also said, "we expect the overall rainfall will recover and the deficit in sowing area under the Kharif crops will be covered. The sowing operation is progressing well."
Agriculture Secretary Sanjay Agrawal said, "the deficit in overall sowing area has improved compared to the last week. Now, the gap has come down."
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