Monsoon deficit threatens Onam crops in Kerala
Kerala is facing a severe 35% rainfall deficit during the current monsoon season, threatening agricultural output ahead of the Onam festival. Farmers are particularly concerned about the impact on flower and food crop yields, which may lead to supply shortages and price increases.
Why it matters
Climate-driven agricultural instability directly affects food security and the economic well-being of the agrarian community during peak festive seasons.
A prolonged spell of weak monsoon activity has triggered serious concerns across Kerala’s agrarian community as official data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reveals a stark 35% rainfall deficit across the State for the current southwest monsoon period between June 1 and July 21. Kerala recorded an actual cumulative rainfall of just 722.1 mm against the seasonal normal of 1,106.5 mm. Out of 14 districts, 12 have fallen into the ‘deficient’ category, while one district has entered the severe ‘large deficient’ classification, leaving farmers grappling with acute water stress during a critical phase of the crop calendar.
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