Jharkhand Farmers Worry as Monsoon Rain Deficit Reaches 49%

Scanty showers continue to worry Jharkhand farmers, as the monsoon rain deficit climbed to 49 percent on Monday, the highest in the country after Uttar Pradesh, according to a weather official. In the country, seven states are experiencing rainfall deficits, with UP experiencing the greatest shortfall (54%).

According to the India Meteorological Department, Bihar has a 45 percent deficit, second only to Jharkhand (IMD). Jharkhand has received well-distributed rainfall over the last few days, which has helped to reduce the deficit by 2% since July 22, but farmers say it is insufficient for paddy sowing.

"Jharkhand is one of the few states in the country experiencing a rainfall deficit. The distribution of rainfall in the state is good, but the quantity is very low. The rainfall deficit will not be reduced until there is a strong system in place," stated Ranchi Meteorological Centre's in-charge, Abhishek Anand.

A deep depression over north Bay of Bengal is required for good rainfall, he said. "The monsoon season will last for more than two months. We are hopeful that the situation will improve,” he continued.

According to Anand, fairly widespread rainfall is expected over the next three days. "On July 28 and 29, some areas of the state may experience heavy rain."

From June 1 to July 25, the state received 226.3 mm of rain, compared to the normal rainfall forecast of 444.3 mm. Of the 24 districts, 17 are experiencing rain deficits of more than 50%, with Chatra and Sahibganj experiencing the highest deficit of 79%.

Only the East and West Singhbhum districts received normal rainfall, with a 9% and 14% deficit, respectively. According to the weather service, a 19% deviation in monsoon rainfall, either surplus or deficit, is considered normal.

The state's overall paddy sowing remains at 14.11 percent, while the ideal season for sowing ended on July 20, according to officials.

Farmers have stated that if there is enough rain, they will continue to sow until August 15. Agriculture experts, on the other hand, advised farmers to plant alternative crops because delayed paddy sowing would not produce the expected results.