The Indian Meteorological Department recently revealed that the country experienced a 33% deficit of rainfall in June. This report comes amid fears associated with ongoing El-Nino phenomenon that started from the beginning of 2019, which is often linked to deficient monsoon. This shortfall in rainfall has severe consequences for the farming population who rely on monsoon season for their sowing activities. The reality is deeply unsettling as the shortfall manifests itself not only in aggregate terms but also across different regions. Although no solid correlation has been made between El-Nino and a shortfall in rain, data collected since 2000 displays a troubling pattern. During the El-Nino years of 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2014, and 2015, rainfall figures were found to be below the long-term average by 12% to 23%.
Shortfall in Rainfall: The Numbers Revealed
As per the figures provided by the India Meteorological Department, the month of June witnessed a significant shortfall in rainfall. Overall, the deficiency in rainfall amounted to about 33%, a number that has sparked widespread concern amongst meteorologists and farmers alike. It’s worth mentioning that this deficit in rainfall isn’t confined to a specific area but rather spread out across various parts of the nation.
El-Nino Phenomenon: A Probable Cause
The El-Nino phenomenon, which began in 2019, is feared to be a potential cause behind the sub-optimal monsoon season. Although a direct correlation between the two events (rainfall shortage and El-Nino) hasn’t been conclusively established, there exists some circumstantial evidence that points towards this connection.
Rainfall Data: An Analytical Look
Rainfall records collated since 2000 further elucidate on this pattern. More precisely, these records indicate that monsoon rainfall during El-Nino years tends to be considerably lower than the established long-term average.
For instance, in the recorded El-Nino years – 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2014, and 2015 – the monsoon rainfall was below the long-term average between 12% and 23%. This worrying trend underscores the profound impact that El-Nino phenomenon can have on monsoon patterns.
| Year | Rainfall Deficiency |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 23% |
| 2004 | 19% |
| 2006 | 17% |
| 2009 | 22% |
| 2014 | 12% |
| 2015 | 14% |
Implications for Agriculture: The Farmers’ Plight
The significant shortfall in rainfall during June has left the country’s farmer population reeling. As they heavily rely on rains for their sowing activities, this deficiency has proven to be calamitous. A comprehensive look at the situation reveals the extent of devastation caused by the drastically less rainfall, demonstrating the urgent need for interventions.
