Monsoon rains in the country were 20% below average in the week ending on Wednesday, as rainfall was scanty over the central, western and southern parts, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, raising concerns over the output of summer-sown crops.
Monsoon rains are crucial for farm output and economic growth, as about 55% of India's arable land is rain-fed, and agriculture forms about 15% of a $2.5 trillion economy that is the third biggest in Asia.
Soybean- and cotton-growing central regions received 68% less rainfall in the week, while the rubber- and tea-growing Kerala received 71% lower rainfall, data from the weather office showed.
Overall, India has received rains that were 16% less than average since the monsoon season began on June 1.
Climate Change Impact on Wayanad Landslides: Study Reveals Key Findings Orange Alert Issued In Landslide-Hit Wayanad, Heavy Rainfall Predicted Skincare Tips: Redness Due To Pimples? These Hacks Can Help You Reduce It Parents Gave Names Of Interns, Doctors To CBI In Kolkata Horror: Sources How Extreme Weather Is Leading To Rise In Child Marriages In Pakistan Video: Woman Tries To Jump Off Mumbai's Atal Setu, Saved By Driver, Cops Exotic Trips, Luxury Cars: Inside The Lavish Life Of LA's "Ketamine Queen" Kerala Launches 1st Digital Court For Negotiable Instruments Cases "Far From Over" But Joe Biden Has High Hopes For Gaza Ceasefire Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.