Rainfall Variability and Indian Agriculture: RBI Bulletin
Why in the news
A March 2025 RBI bulletin warned that farming still depends on the southwest monsoon, and rain is turning erratic.
Key facts
- Monsoon drives kharif yields; good rain also boosts rabi via soil moisture and reservoirs.
- Erratic rain brings pests and diseases.
- WMO expects normal to above-normal rain in 2025; IMD’s forecast was pending.
| Rain pattern | Crops hit |
|---|---|
| Deficient June-July | Maize, pulses, soybean |
| Excess at harvest | Oilseeds |
Climate risks
- 322 extreme weather days in 2024; heatwaves and floods topped 250 days.
- Lower yields, poorer nutrition, soil degradation.
Way forward
- Better drainage, flood and drought management, agritech.
- Natural farming to regenerate soil and diversify crops.
Exam angle
- RBI bulletin, March 2025; monsoon-sensitive crops.