According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon in the country is likely to remain strong till August 15. IMD has forecasted heavy rainfall in many parts of the country except northwest India in the next 48 hours.
Agriculture ministry also stated that the increase in rainfall from the second half of July has helped farmer's plant crops and till now no state government had approached the ministry for drought relief.
The southwest monsoon covered the entire country two days after its normal date July 15. However, some of the states have not received enough rainfall. So far, southern and eastern parts of the country recorded rainfall deficit at 19% to 24%. In Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, the rainfall deficit was more than 50%, while in western Uttar Pradesh the seasonal deficit was 49%.
Monsoon rain is vital for India as 55% of the agriculture land depends entirely on rain for irrigation. Timely and normal monsoon is also vital for rabi season (winter crops) also as it raises the water table and moisture content in the soil. Though, agriculture sector accounts for only about 15% of the economy, monsoon has a wider impact because it affects millions of people in villages who depend upon agriculture. Further, a poor monsoon can impact India’s exports, stoke inflation particularly food inflation and lead to lower demand for products ranging from cars to consumer goods.