PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RAINFALL DEFICIT

The article discusses the rainfall deficit during the initial weeks of the Southwest Monsoon in 2026, as monitored by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As of July 14, 2026, the country received 21% below normal rainfall, with significant spatial and temporal variability. While some regions experienced normal or excess rainfall, others faced deficiencies. The impact on agriculture, water resources, and food grain production is being assessed by concerned ministries and state governments, with no nationwide impact on food grain production indicated currently. The government is strengthening weather forecasting through 'Mission Mausam' under the Ministry of Earth Sciences to improve observations, understanding of physical processes, and advanced numerical models. Drought and flood declarations fall under the purview of State Governments in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs.