India has recorded its driest June in 16 years, with rainfall deficiency at 43%. The India Meteorological Department said the country received only 85.2 mm rain against the normal 149.8 mm. This is the third driest June since 1901 and the worst since 2009.
Central India faced a 56% shortfall, east and northeast saw 43% deficiency, the south peninsula had 31% less rain and northwest India recorded 29% deficiency. Gujarat reported an 80% deficit, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand 67% each, Maharashtra 58%, Uttar Pradesh 56% and Odisha 54%.
The shortage has raised concerns for agriculture, as sowing of kharif crops like rice, pulses and oilseeds depends heavily on monsoon rains. Nearly 315 districts may face stress due to poor rainfall. Reservoir levels are also under pressure, threatening irrigation and urban water supply.
The IMD expects monsoon activity to strengthen until early July, covering more parts of central India. However, experts warn rains may weaken again by mid‑July. Since 60% of seasonal rainfall occurs in July and August, the coming weeks will be crucial for farmers and the economy.