India’s weak monsoon threatens crops, sparks inflation alarm

India’s summer monsoon is delivering less rain than expected, delaying the sowing of key crops and raising fears of higher food prices. The monsoon, which typically runs from June to September, is crucial for Indian agriculture. More than half of the country’s farmland depends on the seasonal rains. This year, rainfall has been below average in several major farming states. As a result, farmers have struggled to plant staples such as rice, pulses, and oilseeds. Delayed sowing reduces the time crops have to mature, which can lead to lower yields at harvest time. Lower crop output often drives up food prices. Analysts warn that this could push India’s overall inflation rate higher, putting pressure on household budgets and the central bank’s policy decisions. The government is monitoring the situation. Officials say they are prepared to release grain from state reserves and ease import rules if shortages worsen. For now, the weather forecast offers little relief. Meteorologists predict below-normal rain for at least the next two weeks.