India set for above-normal monsoon in 2025, boost for agriculture and economy
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India is expected to receive above-normal rainfall during the upcoming monsoon season, according to the latest forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
This development brings positive news for the country’s agricultural sector and overall economy.
The IMD has projected cumulative rainfall at 105% of the long-period average (LPA) of 87 cm for the June to September monsoon period. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra noted that climatic conditions are favorable, with El Niño - typically linked to weaker monsoons - unlikely to impact this year’s seasonal rainfall.
This forecast is particularly significant for India, where agriculture contributes nearly 18% to the GDP and supports the livelihoods of more than 42% of the population. Monsoon rains are vital for the country’s farming, especially since 52% of the cultivated land is rain-fed. Additionally, the monsoon plays a crucial role in replenishing drinking water supplies and powering hydroelectric plants.
The annual monsoon typically begins around June 1 with landfall in Kerala and continues until mid-September. However, climate scientists caution that while overall rainfall may be higher, it may not be evenly spread across regions or over time. A rising trend of intense rainfall in short bursts - rather than consistent rain over longer periods - has been observed in recent years, increasing the risk of both droughts and floods.
