NEW DELHI: July brings good news for crop plantations in India, especially for states that cultivate paddy, as most regions are expected to receive normal rainfall this month.
Concerns about the developing El Nino in the Pacific Ocean have been put aside by the IMD for now.
Normal rainfall falls within the range of 94 percent to 106 percent.
Soma Sen Roy, a scientist at the Indian Meteorological Department speaking to The New Indian stated, “India is expected to receive normal rainfall in July, particularly in the central Indian region, East India, Southwest peninsular India, and parts of Northeast India. The active monsoon regions will experience more rainfall during this month.”
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Sen Roy further elaborated, “The monthly rainfall in July is likely to be normal across most parts of India. This rainfall will provide crucial support to the main paddy-growing regions of the country.”
However, the rising temperatures in June caused significant delays in sowing kharif crops for many farmers in India. Kharif crops are typically planted at the beginning of the monsoon season and harvested between September and October.
When approached, Hareram Das, a renowned agricultural expert, explained, “Due to the soaring temperatures in June, farmers were unable to sow paddy seeds on time. The seeds were planted late, and the dry soil and reduced groundwater levels further added to the challenge. Additionally, the occurrence of ‘kalboishakhi’ storms has also reduced this year.”
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Das added, “Excessive rainfall is also not favorable for rice cultivation as low-lying farmlands get inundated. Hence, receiving an accurate amount of rainfall is highly beneficial. The Bardhaman area of West Bengal is very fertile and ideal for paddy farming. Farmers who cultivate ‘amon dhan’ heavily rely on rainfall. Good rainfall directly impacts the yield positively.”
“Economically speaking, sufficient rainfall leads to higher crop yields, improving the overall per capita income of farmers. A good harvest always enhances a farmer’s economic condition and societal standing,” stated Das, who currently resides in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Kharif crops include rice, maize, bajra, ragi, soybean, groundnut, and cotton.
Paddy farming, being a staple crop in India (and globally), plays a significant role in both health and the economy.
According to IMD, a fresh spell of heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to commence over south Peninsular India on July 02.
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