India set for above-normal monsoon, boost to agriculture

Thursday, 29 May, 2025
Northwest India is expected to see normal rainfall. (Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons)

New Delhi: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has released its updated forecast for the 2025 Southwest Monsoon, bringing encouraging news for the country. According to the report, rainfall during the upcoming monsoon season from June to September is likely to be above normal across most parts of India.

The all-India rainfall is expected to be 106 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA), with a model error margin of ±4 per cent. This forecast raises hopes for a productive agricultural season and improved water availability, although it also calls for preparedness against weather-related risks.

Significantly, the monsoon forecast is quite promising for Central and South Peninsular India, regions crucial for agricultural productivity, where above-normal rainfall is highly likely.

Northwest India is expected to see normal rainfall. At the same time, Northeast India may see below-normal rainfall, raising some concern for the region’s ecosystems and agriculture. The Monsoon Core Zone, which covers most of India’s rainfed farming areas, is also expected to receive above-normal rainfall, providing a strong foundation for a successful Kharif crop season.

June 2025, the first month of the monsoon, is expected to witness above-normal rainfall for the country as a whole. Most parts of India are likely to receive normal to above-normal rainfall, except for some areas in southern peninsular India, and parts of Northwest and Northeast India, where below-normal rainfall is anticipated. These early rains are vital for sowing operations and groundwater replenishment.