Weak monsoon delays kharif sowing, raises fear of widespread drought

Rainfall in the months ahead of the monsoon, which started from June 8, was more than 22% below normal

The monsoon, which has entered a prolonged lull phase, might revive by next week, weather officials have said. So far, rainfall has been almost 42 per cent less than normal across the country — its worst performance since 2014.

The delay of more than a week and the poor performance has raised fears of widespread drought. Rainfall in the months ahead of the monsoon, which started from June 8, was more than 22 per cent below normal.

By June 14, the monsoon should have reached central India. But this year it hasn’t even covered Karnataka properly or entered the Northeast.

K Sathi Devi