India heads for driest monsoon since 2009 as El Niño curbs rainfall
BusinessLine 1 hr ago·18 Sept 2026, 5:22 am
India is bracing for its driest monsoon season since 2009, as the El Niño weather pattern continues to suppress rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that cumulative rainfall is currently 15% below the long-term average. This deficit is a critical development for the economy, as the monsoon is the primary source of water for agriculture, which supports nearly half of the country's workforce.
For investors, this situation highlights significant risks for the broader market. A poor monsoon can lead to lower agricultural output, which may drive up food inflation and impact the cost of living. This can lead to higher interest rates by the central bank to control inflation, potentially dampening economic growth. Consequently, investors should monitor the government's response and agricultural commodity prices closely.
Excerpt from BusinessLine
India is on course for its driest monsoon in 17 years as a strengthening El Niño curbs rainfall, threatening crop yields and raising food-price risks. Cumulative rainfall during the June to September monsoon season is 15 per cent below the long-term average so far, according to the India Meteorological Department. If…Read the original at BusinessLine
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- Category: Economy.
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