Weather Shifts and Indian Agriculture: Monsoon, La Nina
Why in the news
With the 2025 southwest monsoon leaving a bit early after roughly 7% surplus rain, and La Nina expected by October, farm planners face a mix of gains and dangers.
| Aspect | Positive side | Risk side |
|---|---|---|
| Monsoon | Full reservoirs and moist soil aid Kharif and Rabi sowing | Delayed withdrawal and lingering rain may waterlog fields |
| Cold weather | Better wheat, barley and mustard in Rajasthan and North India | Prolonged cold harms flowering and grain; frost worry in Kutch, Gujarat |
| Food and prices | Strong Rabi crop supports food security, stable prices, farm exports | Unseasonal rain at harvest hurts quality and can raise perishable prices |
Way forward
- Advisory and insurance: better forecasts, frequent advisories, wider crop insurance.
- Prices: track food prices; use cold storage, buffer stocks and transport help.
- Water: use reservoir water wisely for irrigation; keep drains working in flood-prone areas.
- Exports: encourage wheat, pulses and mustard exports while protecting home supply.
- Long term: climate-resilient seeds, local storage, better forecasting, and planning ahead rather than reacting.
Exam angle
- Monsoon 2025: about 7% above normal.
- Cold-loving Rabi crops: wheat, barley, mustard.
- La Nina is linked here with cooler winter and extra rain.