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Published: June 6, 2023
Updated: June 6, 2023

"Delayed Monsoon Threatens Kharif Agriculture Season and Economic Impact"

Onset over Kerala delayed by a week

The onset of the monsoon in Kerala is set to be delayed this year, missing the expected date of June 4th, which typically marks the beginning of the rainy season. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the monsoon may arrive in Kerala on June 7th, 2023, as a low-pressure area (LPA) forms in the Southeast Arabian Sea. However, this weather system poses a dual threat, as it could intensify into a cyclone and move northwest, disrupting normal monsoon flows and extracting vital moisture. Consequently, the monsoon arrival in Mumbai and other regions of Maharashtra and Gujarat may be significantly delayed, potentially occurring only after June 15th/16th.

Significance of Kharif Agriculture Season for Farmers:

The Kharif season holds immense importance for farmers as it accounts for a substantial portion of their agricultural activities. This season, characterised by the southwest monsoon, plays a critical role in the cultivation of crops like rice, millets, cotton, and pulses. The timely onset of the monsoon ensures adequate water availability, promoting healthy crop growth and higher yields. Any delay in the monsoon onset can significantly impact the farming community, posing challenges to agricultural planning, water management, and overall productivity.

Economic Implications of Monsoon Arrival:

Beyond its significance for farmers, the monsoon also has far-reaching effects on the Indian economy. Agriculture contributes a significant share to the country's GDP, and any disruptions to the monsoon season can have ripple effects on various sectors. A delayed monsoon arrival can lead to lower crop yields, increased input costs, and potential price fluctuations. This, in turn, affects food inflation, rural income levels, and overall economic growth. Additionally, sectors like irrigation, transportation, and rural employment heavily rely on the monsoon, amplifying the economic implications of any delays or irregularities.

Regional Impact: Mumbai and Maharashtra-Gujarat Regions:

The anticipated delay in the monsoon's arrival over Mumbai and other regions of Maharashtra and Gujarat adds to the concern. These areas heavily rely on the timely arrival of the southwest monsoon to support their agricultural activities. A prolonged delay beyond the normal onset dates can disrupt sowing schedules, leading to potential crop failures or yield reductions. Furthermore, water reservoir levels, crucial for irrigation and drinking water supply, may be adversely affected, impacting both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors in these regions.

Add to Farmers woes:

The delay in the monsoon onset poses significant challenges for farmers and carries wide- ranging economic implications. The Kharif agriculture season, vital for crop cultivation, heavily depends on the timely arrival and proper distribution of rainfall. A delay in the monsoon can disrupt agricultural planning, water availability, and crop productivity, impacting the livelihoods of farmers. Moreover, the economic effects extend to food inflation, rural income levels, and overall GDP growth. As the monsoon's arrival is now predicted to be delayed in Mumbai and other regions of Maharashtra and Gujarat, careful monitoring and adaptation strategies will be crucial to mitigate the potential adverse impacts on the agricultural and non-agricultural sectors.