India is likely to witness above-normal monsoon this year, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted on Tuesday. However, parts of Northeast India and South Peninsular India are likely to witness below-normal rainfall, the IMD said. The IMD ruled out the possibility of El Nino conditions during the entire season. The weather department's prediction came as a huge relief for the country.
"India is likely to see above-normal rainfall in the four-month monsoon season (June to September) with cumulative rainfall estimated at 105 per cent of the long-period average of 87 cm," IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra told a press conference in New Delhi.
IMD's Press Conference:
Notably, El Nino conditions, associated with below-normal monsoon rainfall in the Indian subcontinent.
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However, normal cumulative rainfall does not guarantee uniform temporal and spatial distribution of rain across the country. Due to climate change, the volatility of the rain-bearing system further increased.
In th4e past few years, it could be seen that the number of rainy days is declining. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall activity is being observed over a short, leading to frequent droughts and floods.
The IMD's prediction is good for India's agriculture sector. The monsoon is crucial for the agriculture sector as it supports the livelihood of about 42.3 per cent of the population and contributes 18.2 per cent to the country's GDP.
The country's 52 per cent of the net cultivated area reportedly relies on the primary rain-bearing system, reported news agency PTI. Rainwater is important for the replenishing of reservoirs critical for drinking water. Its is also crucial for power generation across the country.
