PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, June 4: The southwest monsoon officially reached Kerala on Thursday, marking the beginning of India’s annual rainy season. However, the delayed onset over the southern coast is expected to postpone the arrival of monsoon rains in several parts of the country, including Jharkhand.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the monsoon arrived in Kerala three days later than its normal onset date of June 1. Meteorologists attributed the delay to prevailing weather conditions, although favourable factors eventually aided the advance of the rain-bearing system over the state.
Jharkhand May See Delayed Monsoon Arrival
The onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala is a key indicator of its progress across the country. The monsoon typically advances northward in stages and covers most parts of India by mid-July.
In Jharkhand, where the normal monsoon onset date is around June 15, weather experts now expect a delay of a few days.
While the exact arrival date will depend on the speed of the monsoon’s advance in the coming days, current indications suggest that widespread seasonal rainfall may reach the state later than usual.
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Farmers Await Rain for Kharif Sowing
The delay comes as several districts in Jharkhand continue to experience hot and humid weather conditions.
The arrival of the monsoon is crucial for farmers preparing for Kharif sowing, particularly paddy cultivation and other rain-fed crops that depend heavily on timely rainfall.
Nearly 51 per cent of India’s cultivated land relies directly on monsoon rains, making the season critical for agricultural production, water resources and rural livelihoods.
Monsoon Vital for Economy and Agriculture
A normal monsoon season plays a significant role in boosting agricultural output, supporting rural demand and helping keep food prices under control.
The IMD has forecast favourable conditions for the further advance of the monsoon over parts of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions in the coming days.
Meteorologists will continue to monitor its progress as it moves towards eastern and central India, including Jharkhand.
For now, despite the monsoon’s arrival in Kerala, Jharkhand’s wait for sustained seasonal rainfall is expected to continue a little longer.