The southwest monsoon’s withdrawal phase is marked by significant rainfall failures this year, leading to extended dry spells in agriculture-dependent states. Crop monitoring data indicates rainfall and crop stress in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
Analysis from the Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (NCFC) shows dry spells of two to three weeks occurred between July 1 and September 19 in parts of several states. Soil moisture levels are below the 10-year average in regions including Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Vegetation indices such as NDVI and LSWI also show weaker conditions in affected areas compared to previous periods, indicating less dense and active vegetation. Radar observations confirm drier surface conditions or reduced crop growth in some regions. Paddy transplantation has been affected, with farmers in some areas shifting to other crops.
The impact varies across the country, with states heavily reliant on monsoon rainfall showing greater weakness. Conversely, better-irrigated regions in eastern, northern, and central India have been more resilient to the weak monsoon.
Source: Down To Earth