India's Monsoon Ends 12% Below Normal Amid Regional Rainfall Disparities
India's Monsoon Ends 12% Below Normal Amid Regional Rainfall Disparities
IN · Published Oct 5, 2026
• India's 2026 southwest monsoon season concluded with a 12% rainfall deficit, influenced by the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.
• Between June 1 and September 29, the country received 758.5 mm of rainfall against the long-period average of 865 mm, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Impact & Risks

The uneven monsoon has significantly impacted agriculture, particularly in rain-fed regions that rely on seasonal rainfall for crops like pulses and coarse cereals. Groundwater resources have come under strain as farmers increasingly depend on irrigation to compensate for rainfall deficits. States such as Karnataka, Puducherry, and Punjab faced severe shortages, affecting soil moisture and sowing patterns. Meanwhile, regions like Odisha and Dadra and Nagar Haveli saw surpluses, highlighting the stark contrasts in rainfall distribution. These disparities pose challenges for water management and regional planning, especially in areas with prolonged deficits.

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