India set for above-average monsoon in 2025

New Delhi

India is likely to receive above-average rainfall during the 2025 monsoon season, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The forecast suggests 105% of the long-term average rainfall, with El Niño conditions expected to remain neutral.

M. Ravichandran, Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences, said this projection bodes well for agriculture, drinking water supply, and power generation. “Monsoon rains are expected to support farming activities, especially as 52% of the net cultivated area depends on them,” he noted.

Regions Likely to See Good Rainfall

According to the IMD, most parts of the country are expected to witness above-normal rainfall. However, some areas in Northwest India, Northeast India, and the South Peninsular region may experience below-normal rains.

Despite the positive outlook, experts caution that good total rainfall doesn't mean uniform distribution. Due to climate change, India is witnessing fewer rainy days but more intense rainfall events, leading to floods in some areas and droughts in others.

Monsoon Timeline and Average

The monsoon typically begins around June 1 in Kerala and lasts until mid-September. IMD considers 87 cm as the long-term average for the four-month season. Rainfall between 96% and 104% of this figure is termed as "normal."

As of now, several parts of the country are battling extreme heat. The number of heatwave days from April to June is expected to rise. This puts additional pressure on water and power supply, making the upcoming monsoon season even more critical.