Monsoon likely to be satisfactory, says food minister

Monsoon rains are expected to be "satisfactory" this year, though they could be below average in some parts of southern India, food minister KV Thomas said today, ahead of an official forecast later in the day.

Monsoon rains are expected to be "satisfactory" this year, though they could be below average in some parts of southern India, food minister KV Thomas said on Friday, ahead of an official forecast later in the day.

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"This year's monsoon is expected to be satisfactory, except in some parts of South India," KV Thomas said. Forecasts from global experts last week point to normal rains, which could mean another bumper grain harvest.

Parts of states in southern and western India are already suffering their worst drought in four decades and this year's rains could be crucial for them.

Monsoon rains are vital for the 55% of the country's farmland that lacks irrigation facilities, and can make the difference between India being an exporter or importer of staples such as rice and sugar.