Regular Update
ATM News Network: Rainfall 33% below average impacting agriculture, reservoir water levels, and rural prospects, experts are calling for urgent mitigation measures.
India experienced its driest August in 122 years, with rainfall dropping to 33 percent below the seasonal average, according to the country's meteorology office.
The deficit led to a 9 percent drop in this year's monsoon rainfall compared to the long period average for August, marking the weakest performance in eight years.
Hardest Hit States: Gujarat, Kerala, and Rajasthan
The states of Gujarat, Kerala, and Rajasthan bore the brunt of the rainfall shortfall. The deficit disrupted agricultural activities, leaving water reservoir levels well below their 10-year average. Insufficient rainfall not only threatens water supply and irrigation but also raises concerns about the outlook for rabi crops in rural India.
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
As a result, the sowing of kharif crops like pulses, jowar, and oilseeds lags behind last year's figures. Additionally, the concerning state of water reservoirs casts a shadow over the upcoming rabi season.
Experts and farmers are deeply worried about the growth prospects in rural India due to the monsoon deficit. The implications extend beyond crop yields to economic stability, food security, and livelihoods.
Mitigating the Impact
India heavily relies on the June-September monsoon season, which accounts for about 70 percent of its annual rainfall. Farmers in regions lacking irrigation facilities depend on this seasonal rainfall for crop growth.
Urgent measures and adaptive strategies are now essential to alleviate the impact of this deficiency and protect the nation's agricultural future. Authorities and experts are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a turnaround in the coming months to alleviate the ongoing agricultural distress.
Rainfall Data
As of August 30, India received 628.7 mm of rainfall since June 1, falling 9 percent short of the normal amount of 693.9 mm, as reported by the IMD (India Meteorological Department). Rainfall was categorized as deficient in seven states and normal in 25 states.
States of Despair
The India Meteorological Department revealed that the rainfall deficit for August was as high as 90 percent.
States with the Highest Rainfall Deficit:
1. Gujarat - 90%
2. Kerala - 89%
3. Rajasthan - 79%
4. Karnataka - 74%
5. Telangana - 63%
6. Andhra Pradesh - 48%
7. Madhya Pradesh - 36%
8. Manipur - 35%
9. Tamil Nadu - 23%
