NEW DELHI, 22 July 2026: India has received 21?low-normal southwest monsoon rainfall as of July 14, 2026, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), although the government has said there is no indication of any nationwide impact on food grain production.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh said the monsoon has been weaker than normal in several parts of the country during the initial weeks of the season, while some regions have received normal or excess rainfall due to the natural variability of the southwest monsoon.
The IMD monitors rainfall on a daily, weekly and seasonal basis against the Long Period Average (LPA). Rainfall distribution across India remains highly uneven, with several meteorological subdivisions recording deficient rainfall while others have experienced normal or above-normal precipitation.
The government said the impact of rainfall on agriculture, water resources, drinking water and groundwater is continuously assessed by the concerned ministries and state governments. At present, there is no indication that the rainfall deficit has affected overall food grain production.
Officials noted that monsoon rainfall in India is inherently characterized by significant spatial and temporal variability, often leading to localized deficits or excesses. The IMD continues to issue regular weather forecasts and warnings to help administrative authorities plan operational measures.
The Centre clarified that the assessment and declaration of drought or flood situations remain the responsibility of state governments, in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
To improve forecasting capabilities, the government is strengthening weather prediction under the Ministry of Earth Sciences' flagship Mission Mausam programme. The initiative aims to enhance weather observations, improve understanding of atmospheric processes, and develop advanced numerical forecasting models for more accurate weather predictions.
