August rains fall short, widening India's monsoon shortfall
Despite above-average showers in many regions, India's overall monsoon deficit grew to nearly 14% in August because of severe shortfalls in Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and parts of the northeast.
Rainfall across large swaths of India exceeded expectations in August, yet the cumulative monsoon deficit rose from 13% at the end of July to almost 14% by month’s end. The increase is attributed to a pronounced lack of rain in Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and several northeastern states. The shortfall threatens the kharif cropping season, which has already seen a 2% reduction in cultivated area. Analysts note that uneven distribution of precipitation hampers agricultural planning and water resource management.
Why it matters
A growing monsoon deficit jeopardizes India's food supply and water security for millions.
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