Weak Monsoon 2026: ICRA Cuts India's Farm Growth Forecast
Weak Monsoon 2026: ICRA Cuts India's Farm Growth Forecast
IN · Published Oct 2, 2026
• India experienced its weakest monsoon since 2015, with rainfall during the June-September period at 87% of the long-period average (LPA).
• This has led to deficient kharif sowing and depleted reservoir levels, particularly in southern and northern regions.

Impact & Risks

The weak monsoon has created significant challenges for India's agricultural sector, particularly in southern and northern states where reservoir levels are critically low. This could lead to reduced rabi crop output, affecting irrigation-intensive crops like rice and wheat. Rural incomes and consumption are expected to decline, with risks of increased food inflation. Southern states, which account for a large share of rabi rice acreage, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, the uneven rainfall distribution may weigh on yields even in areas where sowing acreage remains close to normal. The broader economic impact includes potential pressure on rural wages and inflationary trends in food prices.

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