Early arrival of monsoon is not always good

26-May-2025 08:13 PM

New Delhi. Although Indian farmers eagerly await the arrival of the southwest monsoon as its rainfall is crucial for the sowing and growth of Kharif crops, the early onset of monsoon is not always beneficial.

Sometimes, after an early start, the monsoon loses momentum and remains inactive for several days, which can negatively impact agricultural activities.

The Meteorological Department has predicted that the monsoon may arrive in India on 27 May this year, earlier than its usual date of 1 June. While this early arrival seems like a positive sign, experts caution that it doesn't necessarily guarantee favorable outcomes. Historical data supports this view.

In 2009, for instance, the monsoon entered India as early as 23 May, but its activity weakened significantly afterwards, resulting in a 23 percent deficit in rainfall over the season. This caused considerable damage to Kharif crops that year.

The monsoon generally begins in the southern and northeastern parts of India and then advances to the rest of the country. Although early arrival this year may bring initial good rainfall,

experts warn that the overall performance of the monsoon—whether strong, normal, or weak—depends on various dynamic factors, particularly the wind patterns over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.

Currently, rainfall continues in many parts of the country and is expected to persist for a few more days. However, for the monsoon to progress uniformly and with adequate strength across India, favorable atmospheric conditions must be maintained throughout the season.