A deficient monsoon can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, which weakens rural incomes and purchasing power. In 2026, the southwest monsoon ended at 87% of the long period average (LPA), the weakest rainfall since 2015. This has led to rising food inflation, which accelerated to 7.74% in September from 5.97% in August, further straining rural households. Additionally, geopolitical uncertainties and rising crude oil prices compound the challenges faced by rural communities.