India Records Weakest Monsoon Since 2015, Rainfall 12.6% Below Normal
India Records Weakest Monsoon Since 2015, Rainfall 12.6% Below Normal
India · Published Oct 8, 2026
• India experienced its weakest southwest monsoon since 2015, with cumulative rainfall during June-September 2026 recorded at 759.4 mm, 12.6% below the long-period average of 868.6 mm, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• The monsoon core zone, which includes key rain-fed agricultural regions, saw a 6% rainfall deficit.

Impact & Risks

The uneven monsoon rainfall poses risks to agricultural output, particularly in rain-fed regions, potentially affecting farm incomes. However, the diversification of rural incomes into non-farm activities has mitigated the economic impact. Tractor sales, which are closely tied to agricultural performance, fell 12.58% month-on-month in September, though they were still 15.56% higher year-on-year. Rainfall-deficient pockets and rising vehicle prices remain concerns for rural markets, as highlighted by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA).

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