India’s southwest monsoon has started on a weak note, with rainfall during the early phase running nearly 40% below the seasonal average, raising concerns over agriculture and water availability. Meteorologists attribute the shortfall largely to the impact of El Niño, the climate phenomenon known for altering global weather patterns and suppressing rainfall over the Indian subcontinent.

According to weather officials, several regions across central and northern India have received significantly less precipitation than usual since the onset of the monsoon. The delayed and uneven distribution of rains has affected sowing activities for key crops such as rice, pulses and oilseeds, increasing concerns among farmers and policymakers.

Experts warn that prolonged rainfall deficits could affect agricultural output and push up food prices if conditions fail to improve in the coming weeks. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that monsoon activity is expected to pick up gradually, offering hope for better rainfall in the latter half of the season.

El Niño, characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, often weakens India’s summer monsoon. While weather patterns remain dynamic, authorities are closely monitoring developments as the monsoon season progresses, given its critical role in supporting nearly half of the country’s farmland and replenishing reservoirs.