‘Near normal monsoon’ predicted by Meteorological Department

The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted a 'near normal' monsoon this year. Annual rainfall from the June to September monsoon period is expected to be 96% of the long-term average. The risk of the 'El Nino' weather pattern, which is associated with lower rainfall in India, has been downplayed by the IMD. The south-west monsoon is critical to India's agriculture. Deficient rainfall can cause low crop output and higher import of commodities like edible oils.