Crisil DRIP index: Rainfall distribution across states remains patchy

This week's DRIP scores highlight some strain in Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar and Rajasthan, because they are higher than last year and above the average of the past five years

The all-India rainfall level improved further in the week ended August 22 with cumulative rain at 7% below the long-period average (LPA) compared with 9% in the preceding week. However, distribution across states remained patchy. 

While rains continued to overwhelm Kerala and parts of Telangana, there was a catch-up in Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Rajasthan. Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar and Haryana continued to be rain deficient (15-24% below LPA), while rains weakened in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh (UP).

But rainfall volume data alone is not sufficient to assess the distribution impact. It’s important to weigh that along with irrigation levels.