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Weather
India Faces 26% Rainfall Shortfall in September, 15% Overall Monsoon Deficit
✍️ India Today
🗓 11 Sep 2026, 10:18 AM
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India's monsoon season has worsened, with September recording a 26% rainfall deficit and the overall monsoon falling 15% short of expectations, according to the latest data.
India’s monsoon, which is crucial for the country’s agriculture and water supplies, has taken a hit this year. The latest reports show that September’s rainfall was 26% below the average, a significant shortfall that has raised concerns among farmers and water managers.
Across the nation, the cumulative monsoon deficit stands at 15%, meaning that the total rainfall received so far is 15% less than the long‑term average for the season. This gap is the largest seen in recent years and could affect crop yields in key states such as Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
The shortfall is expected to strain irrigation systems and could lead to lower groundwater recharge. Agricultural officials warn that farmers may face crop stress, especially in regions dependent on monsoon rains for paddy and wheat cultivation.
In response, the government has announced a review of water‑management plans and is exploring emergency measures to support affected farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture has urged farmers to adopt water‑conserving practices and to seek assistance from state schemes designed to mitigate monsoon variability.
Across the nation, the cumulative monsoon deficit stands at 15%, meaning that the total rainfall received so far is 15% less than the long‑term average for the season. This gap is the largest seen in recent years and could affect crop yields in key states such as Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
The shortfall is expected to strain irrigation systems and could lead to lower groundwater recharge. Agricultural officials warn that farmers may face crop stress, especially in regions dependent on monsoon rains for paddy and wheat cultivation.
In response, the government has announced a review of water‑management plans and is exploring emergency measures to support affected farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture has urged farmers to adopt water‑conserving practices and to seek assistance from state schemes designed to mitigate monsoon variability.