Pre-monsoon showers have already begun in various parts of the India and farmers should utilize these rains for land preparation for the Kharif crop. Overall pre-monsoon rains have been slightly lower across the country as compared to normal. Rainfall during the period 1st March-16thMay, 2018 has been normal to excess in most of the southern and eastern states while it has been normal to below normal in central and northern India.
Monsoon rains is single most important phenomenon for Indian Agriculture as most of the land is still dependent on rainfall. Normal monsoon is not only good for farmers but it’s good for the entire economy.
Indian Meteorological department expects Monsoon rains to hit Kerala coast on 29th May this year. Monsoon rains generally begin during the first week of June in India. The normal date for the onset is 1st June. The conditions are very favourable for the onset of Monsoon of rains in India.
The department has also forecasted normal monsoon rains (97% Long Period Average) for the country for the period June-September.
All eyes shall be focused not only on the onset but also on the distribution of rainfall during the season across the major states particularly during the important growth stages of crops that impact crop production. We may again witness a year of bumper harvest of food grains. The government should however ensure that farmers get the right price for their produce by firstly fixing better Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops and procuring effectively in case of market prices decline below MSP. The government should also focus seriously on proper post harvest storage facilities, encourage and develop food processing facilities.
