Prolonged Monsoon Rains Threaten India’s Crop Outlook

India’s monsoon rains are expected to extend into late September due to a low-pressure system, potentially damaging summer-sown crops. This could lead to food inflation but benefit winter crops with higher soil moisture. Officials warn of further export curbs on key farm commodities amid excessive rainfall.

India's monsoon rains are predicted to continue into late September due to a developing low-pressure system, as confirmed by two weather department officials in an exclusive to Reuters.

The delay in monsoon withdrawal may harm crucial summer crops like rice, cotton, and soybean, leading to possible food inflation. However, increased soil moisture might benefit winter crops such as wheat and chickpea.

An anonymous official from the India Meteorological Department revealed that a low-pressure system is expected by mid-September. This could lead to New Delhi extending export curbs on crops like wheat and rice amid potential crop damage from excessive rainfall.

(With inputs from agencies.)